September 14, 2023
Puyallup, Wash. – The Washington State Patrol (WSP) will host members of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team along with community members interested in improving relationships between law enforcement and diverse communities at the WSP’s Washington State Fair Exhibit this Sunday in Puyallup from Noon till 4:00 pm. Fair-goers interested in learning more about the agency’s diversity and community outreach efforts are encouraged to stop by.
Like many state agencies, WSP has been focusing on the theme of ‘Belonging’ this year with the goals of increasing a welcoming environment for all working within the agency, those considering applying to work in law enforcement, and members of the diverse populations served in the state.
“The Washington State Patrol has been a welcoming and inclusive organization for many, many years,” said Chief John R. Batiste. “We like to refer to the agency as ‘Your’ State Patrol because it belongs to every person in our beautiful state. This Sunday’s ‘Day of Belonging’ emphasizes that critical relationship between state law enforcement and all of the diverse communities we serve and helps us deliver the message to prospective recruits – YOU belong in the Washington State Patrol!”
The Chief continued, “We need you. We need everyone with the character, the courage and the competence to serve our state in the Patrol to recognize there are absolutely no race or gender barriers to joining our ranks. We also need everyone in our state to realize the Washington State Patrol is here for you with impartial, unbiased and solutions-based law enforcement and public safety services. We really do belong to ALL Washingtonians.”
Along with the DEI team members, members of the agency’s PEAR (Pro-Equity-Anti-Racism) team will be on hand for discussion with the public. PEAR is a state program that encourages state agencies to engage with community members across the state that have often felt underserved by state government in the past. PEAR teams meet each year in a series of gatherings to review state agencies’ progress in becoming more welcoming and effective in their operations, reputation, and outlook.
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Original release sent by Chris Loftis, Director of Communications