Lack of Transparency Threatens the Future of Police LGBTQ+ Initiatives

In a troubling case dating back to 2011, Ron Blake reported being raped in his Phoenix condo by his former partner and two accomplices. Despite reporting the incident immediately, it wasn’t until four years later that the police began to investigate seriously. Blake struggled with dissociative amnesia, prompting him to turn to Detective Julie Smith, the department’s LGBTQ+ liaison. However, their interactions left him feeling abandoned, lacking the support he needed throughout his ordeal.

The role of LGBTQ+ liaisons is designed to foster trust and communication between police and the LGBTQ+ community, a relationship historically fraught with tension. Many Arizona police departments, including those in major cities like Phoenix and Tucson, have established liaison programs. Yet, an investigation by A LOOKOUT and Phoenix New Times reveals that these programs often lack clear structure and accountability.

Incidents of past police misconduct have compounded distrust. Events like the 1964 raid on the Eighth Day Coffee House and more recent cases of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals highlight deep-seated issues within law enforcement. The aim of liaison programs is to mend this trust, but mere presence isn’t a guarantee of effectiveness.

A report from the ACLU underscores the need for liaisons, noting LGBTQ+ individuals are less likely to report crimes compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers. Despite this, the steps necessary to enhance police participation and accountability, such as ongoing training and community engagement, remain inconsistently applied across Arizona’s police departments.

The situation deteriorated for Blake when he discovered that his case had been closed without proper communication from the police, including his assigned liaison. In contrast, the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence provided the guidance that Blake felt was lacking from law enforcement, helping him navigate the complexities of his case.

Other communities have faced similar challenges. In Flagstaff, police mismanaged the case of Epona Rose, a trans woman who defended herself against harassment. The local LGBTQ+ liaison was absent during critical moments, prompting community organizations to take action in ways that law enforcement failed to do.

In contrast, some police departments are beginning to recognize the need for change. The new Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly is prioritizing community engagement and developing an LGBTQ+ Citizen Advisory Board, signaling a shift toward building stronger connections with marginalized groups. Nonetheless, the absence of liaisons, particularly in smaller jurisdictions, raises questions about the inclusivity of law enforcement services.

Reports of harassment and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals have persisted, showcasing systemic gaps in police responses. In Queen Creek, a couple faced repeated vandalism and verbal abuse, with inadequate police support leaving them feeling vulnerable. The absence of an LGBTQ+ liaison in the area reflects a broader deficiency in addressing the needs of queer residents across many parts of Arizona.

Efforts by organizations like Out to Protect aim to standardize LGBTQ+ liaison programs nationwide, establishing criteria for effective community engagement and training. Increased awareness of the significance of these roles is vital for fostering trust and ensuring that law enforcement is perceived as a safe resource.

There are signs of progress; for instance, the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation has initiated LGBTQ+ sensitivity training for police officers, demonstrating that proactive community projects can pave the way for improved relationships. Yet, a substantive shift in how police departments engage with LGBTQ+ communities remains essential. As advocates stress, the path to rebuilding trust is long and requires consistent effort from all parties involved.

Ultimately, true change lies in sustained collaboration between law enforcement and the LGBTQ+ community. The engagement must extend beyond formal roles to encompass genuine understanding and acknowledgment of historical grievances. As Nate Rhoton from the One-n-Ten organization aptly notes, establishing trust requires ongoing dialogue and commitment from police departments to facilitate a safe and inclusive environment for all.