The Wire

Last Friday, two Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (ACLOs) gave evidence at the NSW Parliamentary inquiry into February’s Redfern riots. Paul Wilkinson and Derek Wilson spoke up because they were angered by a leaked copy of the official Coburn report – and wanted to set things straight. Derek Wilson denied he was sent home from the riot because he was too drunk to help, while Paul Wilkinson paints a frightening picture of police bullying. Officer Wilkinson says the racism continues to thrive because of poor leadership. Redfern Community Member Shane Phillips hopes to see some change in the Police Service. Elsewhere in NSW, an officer was disciplined earlier this year for circulating a racist email. Mr Phillips whether he thinks all police should have more cultural awareness training. Indigenous Lawyer at the Public Interest Advocacy Centre Shaz Rind says the racist email at the centre of the controversy demonstrates the depth of the problem.