NCJ Number
171977
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 64 Issue: 11 Dated: (November 1997) Pages: 45-48
Date Published
1997
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the importance of diversity training for law enforcement personnel.
Abstract
Diversity training provides information that helps police officers function more effectively in cross-cultural contacts, and better prepares them as public servants in a pluralistic society. To be successful, however, a diversity training program must have clearly stated goals and objectives. This means determining not only what the administration and the community see as priorities, but what trainees consider important as well. Allowing the students' perspectives to shape the training curriculum is critical. Training should educate officers in both specific and conceptual areas of American culture relative to the law enforcement mission. Developing informed opinions and attitudes about the presence and effects of racism is also basic to any diversity program. Another characteristic of the well-structured diversity program is an attempt to address internal departmental concerns. The article describes several elements of a successful diversity training program, including concept-based instruction. The article concludes that a real understanding of multiculturalism and all that it implies is as relevant to police business as any other issue of public safety. Notes