NLPOA Endorsement
More than ever before,
Law Enforcement officers find themselves dealing with diverse communities which
include significant sections of the population which have limited English
language skills. Effective communication skills and cultural awareness of these
communities are critical to effectively managing situations and reducing risks
to officers. Bilingual officers are often called upon to assist in these types
of situations.
The
United States has the fifth-largest Spanish speaking population in the world. Over 30 Million Americans speak Spanish as a first or second language, easily making Spanish the
second most spoken language.
The National Latino
Peace Officers Association has reviewed and endorsed the self study programs
"Tactical Spanish for Law Enforcement Officers" and "Tactical
Spanish Slang and Profanities". In addition, the NLPOA has reviewed and
endorsed the "Instructor Guide" which enables a bilingual
officer to lead a classroom based training course using the self study programs.
This approach provides more structure than the self study guide alone and equips
students with a flexible learning tool to use in their spare time. This approach
was developed by Public Safety Language Training which has developed several
self study programs. Public Safety Language Training will certify you to teach
the course.
Bilingual officers are
uniquely qualified to champion this effort and help our colleagues educate
themselves and in turn provide a valuable service to the communities we serve. I
applaud you for your efforts in better serving your community.
Respectfullly,
Roy Garivey
National President
National Latino Peace
Officers Association
June 2008
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