Proud to be Black and Blue

As an African-American senior law enforcement official, in 2016, I was encouraged to combine my love and knowledge of criminal justice with my love, passion and commitment for social justice.  The need was, and remains, for systematic change which spans the widening gap between both facets of justice.  In an effort to answer that call, I joined the local Sheriff’s advisory board, became involved in local reentry efforts, did guest lecturing at a local community college, engaged in the facilitation of anti-racism projects, became board chairperson for a regional social justice/voting rights, non-profit and created an online platform for law enforcement people of color.  I also retired from a 30 year career in law enforcement and obtained a MS in Criminal Justice (Corrections and Behavior Studies emphasis).  

While I don’t believe any of those accomplishments make me better than anyone else, I share them as an example of my commitment to viewing justice through a wide, holistic lens.  That instead of siding, exclusively, with Black Lives Matter OR Blue Lives Matter, I choose to exercise an openness to the possibility of  “both/and” versus “either/or”.   In other words, I refuse to believe a false narrative which claims I have to be wholly on one side or the other.  I can still honor my race and culture while supporting ethical, moral, and appropriate acts of law enforcement.  I can remain proud of those who are committed to protecting in a way that is fair and just while putting the rights of others ahead of their own prejudices and personal agendas. Because that is what we swore to do.  There is freedom and power in knowing I do not have to choose whether to stand by my black and brown brothers and sisters or my law enforcement brothers and sisters. I am human and spirit enough to do both.  So are others in my place. 

When I previously taught ethics to law enforcement colleagues, I would ask if they knew how I “personally” felt about any subset of offenders and they would shake their heads. I went on to inform them that the reason they didn't know was because I considered it IRRELEVANT information. The bottom line was that I swore to perform a duty and it was to treat all inmates fairly regardless of why there were in prison. My personal feelings simply did not apply and that when I could no longer do that, I would quit my job because I was not fit to do it or worthy to hold the position.

Never has it been more important for those of us who are black and brown (and the allies thereof), as well as law enforcement to take care of one another and strategize. We have a unique perspective on current events, that many don’t have. We have a special role to play, if we would only be open to it. There will be times when we may be the only black/brown people some of our white law enforcement brothers and sisters will be socially exposed and willing to listen to. What we SAY, THINK and DO matters! 

B&BLM (Black and Blue Lives Matter) and #ProudToBeBlackandBlue