Silently Serving (Part Two), “The Boys Club”: Being LGBTQ+ in Law Enforcement

photo credit - R.D. Smith via unsplash

Over 50 years ago the Stonewall Riots marked a turning point for the LGBTQ+ community and law enforcement relationship. Prior to that event the community was largely “underground” and society viewed it as “out of sight, out of mind”. The residual fear instilled within the U.S. LGBTQ communities based on these and other oppressive actions had a huge impact on the community’s perception of how truly accepting law enforcement is of LGBTQ issues, including in its outreach efforts and hiring practices. Though major improvements have been made over the decades regarding law enforcement and their respective LGBTQ+ communities; suspicions still exist regarding their acceptance (or non-acceptance) of LGBTQ+ members within their ranks.

Perceptions

Many law enforcement officials are supportive of the LGBTQ+ communities and encourage joining their respective agencies. However, there is also a gap in communication and knowledge that many do not know how to navigate. Many officials readily admit to not having much knowledge about the LGBTQ+ communities and want to help, but do not want to offend by asking questions in the wrong way. Those that take to attitude of “I can’t fail if I don’t try.”, will have a much more difficult time regaining the trust in the LGBTQ+ community. That said, it is equally as important for LGBTQ+ activists and members to understand the need to step back and allow police navigate their way through uncharted territory, helping them if needed, and waiting before automatically condemning their efforts.

Within law enforcement agencies there are also perceptions that negatively impact people within the LGBTQ+ community. Many LGBTQ+ members have the perception that everything is fine because it is not brought up or talked about. This is especially alarming when you consider that these were the same attitudes and beliefs held prior to the Stonewall Riots. There is also a general consensus with most that discussing LGBTQ-related issues, could be met with ridicule from peers, lack of promotional opportunities, transfers, or even termination. This mind-set is not necessarily based on actual events, but rather the perception that these situations may occur.

Command positions are faced with additional challenges in this regard. Many have the perception that the risks may outweigh the benefits of revealing their personal information and thus choose to remain silent. If this perception/attitude continues to be the norm, how is the public supposed to have any degree of confidence that law enforcement has changed and can be an ally to the LGBTQ+ communities?

How Therapy Can Help

Therapists can help law enforcement officers in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the (often) difficult path of gaining the confidence needed to openly serve in their roles within their respective agencies. Even if the goal is not to come out to your colleagues or command staff, but to find acceptance within yourself so that you feel fulfilled with your employment; there are ways that therapy can help:

·        Addressing Minority Stress: LGBTQ+ individuals often experience unique stressors due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, which can negatively impact their mental health. Therapy can help them process and cope with these stressors, developing healthier coping mechanisms. 

·        Managing Trauma: Law enforcement officers, including those who are LGBTQ+, are at risk of developing trauma, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), due to the nature of their work. Therapy can provide specialized support for trauma recovery, helping them heal and rebuild their lives. 

·        Building Self-Acceptance: Therapy can help LGBTQ+ officers develop a stronger sense of self-acceptance and self-worth, particularly when facing discrimination or negative attitudes within the workplace or community. 

·        Promoting Organizational Change: By seeking therapy, LGBTQ+ officers can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive environment within their agencies, encouraging other officers to seek mental health support as well.  

If you or someone you know has experienced any of this and are curious about how to move forward. Reach out…