A FOUNDING member of the UK’s Black Police Association has called for change following the death of African American, George Floyd.
The 46-year-old’s death has sparked protests around the world over racism and police killings of Black Americans; Floyd died after his neck was pinned under a white officer’s knee.
Derby man Kul Mahay, once one of the most senior Asian police officers in the UK, believes that this is not solely a police issue – and that all organisations and societies need to take action.
Kul, an emotional and social intelligence specialist who spent more than 32 years working for Derbyshire Constabulary, said: “Many right-minded police officers around the world will be as upset as communities are at the appalling actions of the officers involved in the death of George Floyd.
“For three decades, as a minority ethnic member of the police service, I worked with the police service trying to bring about understanding and change across the service.
“I worked on how to get the best out of the minority staff working for the police and how to improve the service to the black and minority ethnic community.
“My take is that this is not just a police service issue. It transcends across all organisations and societies and we must do whatever we can to create an inclusive and equal platform for everyone to thrive.”
As well as being a founding member of the Black Police Association, the 53-year-old, who left the police service five years ago, was one of the very first Vice Presidents of the National Black Police Association.
In the past, Kul has worked with high level Government ministers – including Home Secretaries Jack Straw and David Blunkett – and police officers to bring about change. He also advised the service following the death of teenager Stephen Lawrence in 1993.
His present job sees Kul deliver leadership development and emotional intelligence programmes, working with organisations nationwide to empower cultures and inclusive leadership.
He said: “My experience has been that there is an appetite within the service to improve – but it needs to be much wider than just the police service.”
Former US president Barack Obama and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, are among senior public figures who have shown their support for protesters around the globe.
New charges have recently been announced against all four of the now-sacked police officers who were present at the death of Floyd in the northern city of Minneapolis.
ENDS
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