The Importance of Politically Correct Communication Among Police Officers
The use of racial epithets by law enforcement officers is an issue of utmost concern within the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). It is not only offensive and inappropriate, but it can also damage the relationships between police officers and the citizens they are sworn to protect and serve. For this reason, all officers must always refrain from using racial epithets.
There are several practical reasons why officers should not use racial epithets. First, such language can erode trust and confidence in the police department. This can ultimately result in officers being accused of bias, leading to a further decrease in public trust in the department and citizens becoming less likely to cooperate (Hvistenddahl, 2021). Additionally, it can bring about civil rights violations, resulting in serious legal repercussions for the department.
Second, the use of racial epithets can be interpreted as a form of discrimination. The repercussions of officers being accused of bias can cause a lack of public faith in the department and impede citizens from cooperating (Hvistenddahl, 2021). Moreover, it can result in civil rights violations with legal repercussions for the department.
Finally, the use of racial epithets can hurt morale within the department. It can create an environment where officers feel unsafe and unwelcome (Hvistenddahl, 2021). This can lead to lower morale and performance, as well as higher rates of turnover.
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Communication Policies
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) recognizes the need to prevent the use of racial epithets and has taken action to ensure that all officers uphold this policy. Its policy manual states: “Officers shall refrain from using any type of racial epithets at all times” (Bultema, 2019). This language is included in the department’s Code of Conduct, which all officers must adhere to.
The LAPD also has a policy on racial and ethnic discrimination that applies to all members of the department, including officers. This policy states that any racial or ethnic discrimination by any department member, including officers, is strictly prohibited. Any officer found to have engaged in such behavior will be subject to disciplinary action.
The LAPD has policies to ensure that disruptive and potentially dangerous speech is not tolerated. These policies are tailored to protect the community’s safety and ensure that people can exercise their freedom of speech without fear of jeopardizing their safety. Additionally, the LAPD has a policy prohibiting officers from engaging in any speech that could be interpreted as discriminatory or biased (Bultema, 2019). This policy is in place to ensure that the LAPD remains fair and impartial in its dealings with all members of the community. It is clear that the LAPD takes its responsibility to ensure its citizens’ safety seriously and recognizes the importance of protecting freedom of speech.
References
Bultema, J. A. (2019). Guardians of angels: A history of the Los Angeles Police Department. P.D. Publishing.
Hvistenddahl, M. (2021). How the LAPD and Palanter use data to justify racist. The Intercept. Web.