Timeline: Early April, 1990
Timeline is a regular feature in each issue looking back to events and milestones that have helped us evolve into the community we are today.
Early April, 1990
New Haven's gay and lesbian community witnessed a new era of support and cooperation from the city's police department—the result of which ushered in an understanding between both entities.Taking office in February of 1990, new police chief Nicholas Pastore began his immediate crusade towards eradicating anti-gay violence and anti-gay discrimination within the city of New Haven. One of Pastore's first undertakings was to establish sensitivity training for all new sergeants in the force. The first training was instituted for 17 newly-hired sergeants.
"It was very thought-provoking," said Judith Montgillo, Pastore's public relations spokesperson. "The response was very positive from both the trainers and the sergeants."
In addition to guest speakers on racial and ethnic sensitivity, the training also dealt with homophobia and the specific needs of the gay and lesbian community. Rev. Jim Burns of the Metropolitan Community Church and openly gay New Haven Alderman Michael Morand led the sensitivity training.
"We realize there are special needs for every segment of the community," said Montgillo, "and as the police department, we need to know how best to respond to them." According to Montgillo, the purpose of the training was to have each sergeant act as a supervisor to their officers—instructing officers on issues of concern to the gay community.
New Haven residents commended Pastore and the department, as well as the 17 new police sergeants for their pro-gay attitude. Pastore, however, had not acted alone. Applause was also given to New Haven Mayor John Daniels. In his search for a police chief, Daniels made it mandatory that the candidate be supportive of gay issues, the gay community and a proponent of sensitivity training.
Upon his appointment by Daniels, Pastore made it public knowledge that he would neither condone nor tolerate anti-gay discrimination or anti-gay violence within the city. He further pointed out that he and the rest of the force would be vigilant in combating any such activity.
"Hopefully, this kind of training will be on-going," said Montgillo.
More from Timeline
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Bisexuals just didn’t exist. At least that was the argument that ensued in 1989.
Many gay and lesbian groups have adopted the pink triangle to symbolize the struggle against oppression and bigotry.
Connecticut had the distinct honor of being represented by three gay delegates at the Democratic National Convention.
In a piece titled Faces of the Future, Metroline Magazine introduced readers to several young people changing the way America views its youth.
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