CHAMPIONING EQUITY AND INCLUSION IN PUBLIC SAFETY
The British Columbia Law Enforcement Diversity Network is made up of public safety agencies committed equity, inclusion and belonging.
As a provincial network, we discuss principles and practices of authentic community engagement, and share programming models and training resources, all towards the goal of promoting community trust and safety.
The BCLEDN shares situational information on issues impacting diverse communities across BC, such as the poisoned drug supply and intimate partner violence, and disseminates strategies to address these challenges. We also promote equity and inclusion within our agencies, recognizing the difficulties public safety organizations face in fostering a sense of belonging for everyone in the workplace.
Additionally, the BCLEDN is committed to professional development by promoting public safety conferences and training opportunities throughout our membership.
Please contact the BCACP for information on how your agency can join the BCLEDN.
BCLEDN member agencies are Metro Vancouver Transit Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Canadian Pacific Kansas City Police, BC RCMP Highway Patrol, North Vancouver RCMP, Burnaby RCMP, Surrey RCMP, Richmond RCMP, Surrey Police, Abbotsford Police, Delta Police, West Vancouver Police, Saanich Police, Port Moody Police, New Westminster Police, Victoria Police, and Vancouver Police.
Decal Project
The BC Association of Chiefs of Police and the BC Law Enforcement Diversity Network are working to promote safety for individuals living with autism and those who are neurodiverse. One initiative is the Autism Decal.
WHAT IS THE DECAL PROJECT?
The decal project aims to improve interactions between police officers and neurodiverse/autistic individuals by using decals to signal the presence of such individuals.
HOW DOES THE DECAL WORK?
When displayed on houses or vehicles, decals prompt police to adapt their approach, expectations, and communication styles to accommodate the unique needs and sensitivities of neurodiverse/autistic individuals. The decal promotes safety and reassurance that individuals are likely to receive appropriate and empathetic responses from first responders.
WHERE CAN I PICK-UP A DECAL?
Decals are available at your local police agency, the Pacific Autism Family Network and other community agencies support neurodiversity.
SHOULD I PLACE THE DECAL?
For vehicles, place the decal on the rear bumper to the left of the license plate. Police are trained to approach vehicles from behind and check license plates, making this location highly visible. For residences, place the decal near the doorbell.
WHO SHOULD USE THESE DECALS?
A person with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Families of individuals with autism are encouraged to use the decals
to signal the presence of their loved ones.
In addition to the decal, the BCACP and BCLEDN are working with autism organizations in British Columbia to offer specialized training to first responders to enhance their understanding and interaction skills with individuals living with autism, ensuring more effective and sensitive responses in their duties.
