Diversity Training for Law Enforcement

Diversity training aids law enforcement.

Given the daily interaction between law enforcement officers and the diverse public, diversity training for law enforcement workers aids a better understanding of different types of people and their situations. Such education leads to better interaction.

Significance

Communities depend on law enforcement for measures of security, safety and service. According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), some segments of communities have felt neglected or misunderstood by local law enforcement, leading to a lack of trust and a sense of insecurity.

Considerations

Remedying such situations involves training officers and creating a strong sensitivity and connection to the population they serve. The ADL formed a training program focusing on common stereotypes and cultural assumptions, as well as comprehending the common ground shared among different cultural groups.

Effects

Evidence demonstrating at least partial efficacy from diversity training comes from Omaha, Nebraska, where over 800 officers have been trained. In 2008, the Omaha police chief acknowledged the success of training offered by the Center for Human Diversity. In this case, training also considered prejudice committed against officers, who sometimes receive unfair blame for social inequities.

References

• Anti-Defamation League: Law Enforcement Anti-Bias Training
• Center for Human Diversity: Police Diversity Training By Center For Human Diversity