Mayor Yvonne van Mastrigt raised the Progress Pride flag this year at the police station of the Zeeland capital. ‘This flag is more than a symbol: it is a promise,’ says district chief Tim de Kraker. ‘With this flag, we show that the police are here for everyone, no matter who you love.’

Still Work to Do
Too often, people in the LGBTIQ+ community feel unsafe. Lesbian women, gay men, bisexuals, transgender and intersex individuals who face discrimination, threats, or abuse: we are not there yet. That is why every year, on October 11, worldwide attention is drawn to people who come out for their sexual orientation or gender identity, or who, for whatever reason, do not dare to.

Pink in Blue
‘We know that LGBTIQ+ individuals sometimes find it difficult to approach the police,’ explains De Kraker. ‘But no one has to stand alone. It is the faithful duty of every police officer to stand up for people who feel unsafe. If victims find it difficult to report through the regular route, they can also turn to the Pink in Blue network.

Police officers within Pink in Blue provide victims with a listening ear, mediate or refer victims to support agencies, and offer assistance in reporting or filing complaints of LGBTIQ+-related incidents. This aims to increase the willingness to report and file complaints among LGBTIQ+ individuals.

Symbolism of the Rainbow
The fact that the rainbow flag is raised on this day is not without reason. The rainbow colors symbolize the diversity within the community. This has since been expanded with a light blue, pink, white, brown, and black stripe to represent the transgender community and people of color.

The rainbow can also have a religious meaning. The police understand that sensitivity. ‘And that is precisely why we want to engage in conversation and listen respectfully to each other. One does not exclude the other,’ explains De Kraker. ‘As police, we are aware of everyone’s background and beliefs.’

Contact with Pink in Blue
Would you like to speak to someone from Pink in Blue? Please contact: 088 - 169 1234, or via rozeinblauw@politie.nl. Of course, you can always reach out through the general police channels and stations. And in case of emergency, always call 112.