I work for an oversight organisation, one that oversights public agencies to (try and) make sure they do their job. Sort of.

Arising out of my usual job, I got an invite to speak to a group of police recruits  (i.e.: in about 2 weeks they're going to be out on the streets...) about my experience as a trans woman. Another speaker was giving a presentation on LGBTQI background, privilege etc.

Previously I have spoken to the cops about purely work related matters, which is one thing, it is a bit different when you're talking about yourself and your personal feelings. There's a sense you don't want to go too overboard with personal info but also you can't be too bland and non-specific. I also had a feeling that I needed to provide a different perspective to the somewhat narrow view on trans womean that had been on tv the night before. In comparison I probably was a bit dull, but I did feel that I had their attention while I spoke - and not just on a curiosity basis.

I wanted to give the message that as trans people we have the same lives, the same feelings and needs as pretty much everyone else and we deserve to be treated in the same (hopefully) fair and decent manner that anyone else would expect, and that as cops they had the option of being on the side of fear and ignorance or of setting a decent example.

I have no idea what overall effect, if any, these kinds of presentations have - I was one in a line of various community members who have spoken to police recruits generally on areas of gender diversity over the last few years. I guess the hope is that it may lead to a general greater awareness of and fairness in dealing with trans persons and gender diverse people in general.

Honey can I dare say that what you are doing is so important. Yes, the Aussie police are well trained and accepting, but it is due to women like you who made that so.

I am proud of you.

Thank you

Cindy

It's a brave thing to do standing in front of 100 baby cops and being genuine about yourself. I'm sure you did an awesome job!

Thanks Grace and Cindy - I guess we'll see in the next few years how the new cops go. The police have some very clear policies now on gender rights and discrimination- I'm mostly hopeful at this point.

I think someone else did something similar a while back (~3 months ago?).  Not sure how to search the forums for it exactly, but she posted a powerpoint presentation that she used as well I think.  That could give you some ideas. 

Thanks Ros, so inspiring and highly regarded by us all

in the good old Aussie venicular "good on yer gal" 

Thanks

Katy xxxx

Thanks Katy - you're very kind!