LGBTQ+ Training for Law Enforcement in Chester County

GOAL was invited by Chief John D. DeMarco to provide LGBTQ+ cultural humility training for the Upper Uwchlan Township Police Department on October 19, 2022. Upper Uwchlan extended the invitation to surrounding municipalities and agencies. More than 30 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies in Chester County attended. The training was conducted by GOAL members who are law enforcement officers with the Philadelphia Police Department. Trainers included Sgt. Nicholas Tees, Sgt. Jo Mason, Officer Benson Churgai, and Officer Rasheed Murrell.

Topics covered included LGBTQ+ terminology, best practices for law enforcement interactions with the LGBTQ+ public, and how to create inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ officers, staff, and community members. The training not only provided useful information to the participants, including how to connect LGBTQ+ community members to resources, but also served as a platform for dialogue between participants and members of the LGBTQ+ community. GOAL believes that these types of interactions encourage understanding, empathy, and unconditional positive regard.

If you or your agency/department is interested in hosting a similar training, please feel free to reach out. You can email us at info@phillygoal.org.