Here's How the Gay Officers Action League (GOAL) Started Up in 1980s New York City

The Gay Officers Action League (GOAL) is an official NYPD organization started in 1982 to provide support, anti-discrimination education, harrasment assistance, and other services for officers who identified as gay, lesbian, bi, transgender, queer or anything else. In this video from the NYPD, learn how GOAL came together in a completely different New York City.

GOAL was formed in 1982 to address the needs, issues, and concerns of gay and lesbian law enforcement personnel and has since expanded to a nonprofit tax-exempt civil rights organization. GOAL was founded by Charles Henry "Charlie" Cochrane, Jr. (August 5, 1943–May 5, 2008) a sergeant in the New York City Police Department, who after delivering a public testimony on anti-gay discrimination legislation pending before the New York City Council, became the first openly gay officer of the NYPD. Since his founding the fraternal organization has advocated for the rights of its members and has assisted them on matters of discrimination, harassment, and disparate treatment in the workplace. GOAL furthers its mission by providing training at the NYPD Police Academy and Jersey City Police Department, among others.

via NYPD

Matt Coneybeare

Matt Coneybeare

Editor in Chief

Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.

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