When Christian began his career in law enforcement nearly two decades ago, he didn’t know any other gay people in his profession.
“I remember how I really longed to meet some other law enforcement officer-types, not just for the friendship and encouragement, but for the practical job seeking skills,” the retired officer and Tampa resident said. Christian asked that his real name not be used for this article. “I never could find anyone close by who was gay, and since I was working I was limited as to how far I could travel to meet other gay officers.”
Today, things have changed somewhat. More and more law enforcement agencies are accepting of their LGBT officers and even larger agencies like the Tampa Police Department, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and the Orlando Police Department offer domestic partnership packages for the same-sex partners of employees.
But it’s still difficult for LGBT law enforcement officers to find respect, according to Ken B., who works for a small-town police department in central Florida.
“Every year I watch the coverage of Gay Pride parades and I see what is shown,” he said. “They show men in makeup, leather men and sex play on bar floats. They never seem to show the LGBT men and women who are in their dress uniforms or are on the sidelines making sure everyone is safe. It can be frustrating.”
While it is no secret that Ken is gay, he says he doesn’t discuss his sexuality with his co-workers. He says he also doesn’t want to hear about his co-workers’ home life.
“I find it easier to just stick to the job at hand,” Ken says. “I know who’s married and who isn’t, but other than that I don’t ask to hear specifics. It has no impact on how we do our jobs.”
But more and more law enforcement officers are coming out of the closet and some agencies are taking note.
In 2008, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office announced it would offer domestic partner benefits to its employees. Sheriff Jim Coates, a Republican, said it was the smart thing to do considering the large number of LGBT people employed by his office. In addition, more offices are introducing liaisons to their force to provide outreach to LGBT citizens.
As officers become more comfortable living openly, they are also able to be more visible. According to organizers with last year’s Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, officers with the Tampa Police Department actually volunteer their services to patrol the streets during the 11-day event.
“We’re definitely out there and we’re recognized as an integral part of the force,” Christian said. “But too many agencies still have that locker room mentality when it comes to gays serving in law enforcement. That’s a tough perspective to change, but I think we’re making progress.”
