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Constable Amit Parasram officially undertook the role of Equity and Diversity Officer with Halifax Regional Police in late September, after serving in the role on an interim basis since April 25th, 2015.
Cst. Parasram has been a police officer as part of HRP’s Patrol Unit for six years. Prior to joining HRP, he worked with at-risk youth in Halifax, applying his education in psychology and neurosciences (BSc, Dalhousie University). Cst. Parasram immigrated to Canada from Trinidad and Tobago as a child, growing up primarily in Dartmouth, but also spending time in Ottawa and Ajax, Ontario.
As HRP’s Equity and Diversity Officer, Cst. Parasram’s primary responsibility is to ensure HRP best serves all citizens and communities. In the role, Cst. Parasram works with diverse communities and community leaders across our jurisdiction to build relationships, enhance services and promote open communication. He also works with officers across HRP, informing policies and practices to ensure fairness and respect for all.
“Living in a multicultural society means we accept diversity as an integral part of our community life. We must give each other space to grow and create understanding, not only of norms that are acceptable to a society but also of the differences that enrich our lives,” says Cst. Parasram.
Cst. Parasram’s long-held belief in community and public service shows, especially in his desire to foster understanding between diverse communities and the police. “Recognizing, acknowledging and respecting the strength that comes from our differences can promote inclusion, improve communication and cultivate trust. This benefits us all.”