In recognition of the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Commissioner Katarina Carroll took part in a flag raising ceremony and launch of the First Nations and Multicultural Affairs Unit at Police Headquarters this morning.
Commissioner Carroll joined Aunty Deb DeBree and Uncle Bill Ivinson in a flag raising ceremony
The First Nations and Multicultural Affairs Unit, led by Superintendent Kerry Johnson, will be integral to ongoing relationship building with First Nations and culturally diverse communities across the state.
Commissioner Carroll said that the creation of the unit was a momentous step for the organisation.
"The First Nations and Multicultural Affairs Unit will ensure the Queensland Police Service continues to support the cultural priorities of all communities across the state, including Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples," Commissioner Carroll said.
QPS Executive Leadership Team and officers attending the 2020 NAIDOC Week ceremony
"The launch of this unit is significant for the Service, as it will ensure our close connection to the traditional owners of this state, as well as those born overseas who now call Queensland home, continues to grow by giving a strong voice to our diverse communities.
"This new unit will enhance the way that the QPS engages and supports First Nations and multicultural people internally and externally, providing our officers with further capability to respond with care and understanding in every instance."
Uncle Bill Ivinson, Commissioner Katarina Carroll and Aunty Deb DeBree outside Police HQ
Commissioner Carroll said today's flag raising ceremony was an opportunity for members of the QPS to come together to share in a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
"Our flag raisers today; Uncle Bill Ivinson whose father's family extend from Erub (Darnley Island) in the Torres Strait through to Brisbane and Perth, and Aunty Deb DeBree who is a descendent of the Undumbi and Kalkadoon people, have made significant contributions to their communities and we are grateful to have them here with us," she said.
"This year's theme for NAIDOC Week, Always Was, Always Will Be, recognises the significant history and emerging future of our First Nations people, who have occupied and cared for the continent for more than 60,000 years.
QPS Officers wearing 'Look to the Stars' shirts in honour of NAIDOC Week
"By taking part in this flag-raising today, we honour the First Nations Peoples of Australia who always have, and always will be, spiritually and culturally connected to this country.
"We as a government will continue to celebrate the successes of our multicultural communities across Queensland and support positive relationships with our First Nations people."
