Report finds London Police institutionally homophobic, racist and misogynistic

A report by Baroness Louise Casey dubbed the ‘Casey Report’, has claimed that the Metropolitan Police, also known as the Met, is institutionally racist, misogynistic, and homophobic.

The report raises several concerns about the culture and practices within the police force — which serves the Greater London area — and their implications for the communities it works on behalf of.

According to the report, the Met has a culture of discrimination against certain groups, including black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) individuals, women, and members of the LGBT+ community. The 363-page report details several incidents of racist and sexist behaviour by police officers, which have led to mistrust and fear of police within marginalised communities.

Casey argues that the Met needs to be more representative of the communities it serves, with more active recruitment of individuals from underrepresented groups.

The evidence is damning. Baroness Casey has found institutional racism, misogyny, and homophobia, which I accept

–London Mayor Sadiq Khan

The report has sparked clashing opinions. Some have praised it for addressing discrimination and called for action, while others have criticised it for exaggerating the extent of discrimination within the police force and unfairly damaging the reputation of police officers.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “The evidence is damning. Baroness Casey has found institutional racism, misogyny, and homophobia, which I accept.”

However, Sir Mark Rowley, the force’s commissioner, has refrained from using the term “institutionalised”, claiming it is overly political. He does however accept Casey’s findings and that the Met has “…systemic failings, management failings, [and] cultural failings.”