During the last week of Multicultural Queensland Month, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is shining a spotlight on Police Liaison Officer (PLO) Rojin Rash, whose work across Toowoomba is helping to support a community that speaks what is considered to be a "lost language".
In Toowoomba, a significant portion of the local Ezidi population speaks a language that is unique in its vulnerability - it is only spoken, not written.
Ezidi people are predominantly from Iraq and Syria, and Kurdish Kurmanji (Ezidi) is their spoken language with several dialects.
The language can be found in ancient texts, however, over time due to the denial of speaking and education in their language, combined with oppression and genocide, the ability for Ezidi people to decipher the written language has been lost – they now only speak the language.
Today, the few Ezidi who have been exposed to Arabic education will use this alphabet to phonetically write Kurdish Kurmanji. This presents further complications when requesting translation services.
While everyday Australians use technology and literacy to send text messages, many in the Ezidi community create and send audio files to each other to circumvent these literacy gaps. This "lost language" presents challenges for traditional communication, outreach and education.
As an Ezidi-speaking liaison officer, PLO Rash plays a crucial role in bridging communication and trust between police and culture, helping her community navigate Australian laws, while also helping police officers better understand the cultural backgrounds they serve.
Through PLO Rash's role, she is building cultural understanding between the community and police, helping to overcome barriers that can prevent engagement and vital services.
Since joining QPS, PLO Rash has become a trusted figure in schools, homes and community spaces across the region.
PLO Rash works closely with local primary and high schools, supports families and teachers, and delivers programs aimed at online child safety and crime prevention.
The work PLO Rash is doing for the community stems from a passion to help people, but also to mentor, guide and be a role model for women from her culture.
'It's not easy for people in my culture to trust police, but when they see someone like me in the role I hope it gives them confidence to approach and trust in the Service," PLO Rash said.
"I was nervous when I first joined QPS, I did not know what to expect - but the police in Toowoomba have been so welcoming and eager to learn more about where I come from and the community they serve," she said.
"One of the most rewarding parts of this job is working with young people.
"I love helping them understand the law, make good choices and my aim is to ensure they feel safe talking to police when they need help."
Through her work and her presence, PLO Rash is helping reshape the relationship between police and community - proving that representation matters, and that trust can be built with empathy, understanding and the courage to lead by example.
To further support the Ezidi community and strengthen cultural understanding, PLO Ras has taken her community engagement one step further by hosting a QPS podcast in the Ezidi language (embedded below).
The podcast breaks down key aspects of law enforcement and community safety in a way that is accessible and culturally relevant - a vital initiative given the language is spoken only.
Through this platform she is helping to close a critical communication gap and empower her community with the knowledge they need to stay safe and informed.
To get in touch with PLO Rash or any PLO, please contact your local police station.
