​LGBT+ people are vulnerable to violence, and this danger is made worse when police and other public safety departments are perceived to be part of the problem. However, public safety staff can ensure safety for all by treating LGBTQ people with understanding and respect, being aware of the LGBTQ community's unique law enforcement and health concerns and engaging with the community in a positive way.

In the City of Virginia Beach, we have LGBT Liaisons in each of our public safety divisions, because we believe that it is important that there be advocates for fair and respectful enforcement of the law, liaisons who can respond to sensitive issues, and staff who can be a resource for training and to answer questions from their fellow public safety employees.  ​