By Order of Police Department
Christopher Mannino
Vice President @ America’s Premier Crisis Communications Firm for Law Enforcement & Government ? Former Chief of Police ? Leadership & Communications Consultant
I spent last weekend in Washington D.C., a quick father-daughter trip combined with some personal business, and we spent a morning at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Of the many displays that were thought-provoking, or uncomfortable, or painful, I felt a particular sting when we came to this one. ("I can't believe that's how it really used to be", my 13-year old said.)
It wasn't just that relic of segregation and the evil it represents that hit me, but the post-script that caused particular reflection.
"By order of police dept."
You see, I believe that law enforcement is among the most noble of professions, ranking among military professionals, educators, fire fighters, and those in the medical fields. But I'm also reminded from time to time that where police history and the history of civil rights intersects, there have been times and places where law enforcement has been clearly in the wrong.
In October of 2016, then International Association of Chiefs of Police President Terrence Cunningham acknowledged and apologized "for the actions of the past and the role that our profession has played in society's historical mistreatment of communities of color." It is an acknowledgement and apology that I firmly echo.
Throughout Black History Month, my police department used social media to highlight notable African Americans and their achievements, and our social media team did an excellent job of curating our posts for this purpose the entire month of February. But I believe that we miss an opportunity if we do not also acknowledge the "despite". Those achievements of African Americans we noted were gained despite the evil of slavery, despite the legacy of segregation, and despite the wide-spread discrimination that people of color have faced.
I wish this sign had never existed. But it did. And it's my hope that as law enforcement leaders acknowledge past wrongs that occurred in our profession, whether or not our specific agencies were a part, we can help move forward the healing process so badly needed and release the true potential of the American promise.
Consultant: Officers, Be-Wise-Don't-Die, Traffic Safety
5 年Dear Christopher; I as a child, with my family for my Father's job, did actually see these signs down in South Carolina in 1965.At the time I didn't understand what they meant. Then when my birthday rolled around that year I was allowed to invite two friends to have dinner with us. What happened...earlier in that day I wanted to get a soda with one of my friends. She was of 'color'(?). What difference did it make (to me none)went to go in the restaurant door and she told me she couldn't. I'd asked why 3 times before she told me that, because she was 'colored'. I said whats wrong with your skin color. Young and naive. She told me she had to go to the back door and knock, someone wil come to door for her. So we'll go to that door I said..The worker told me I had to use the front door and my friend wasn't allowed inside. So, I told my Dad when he got in from work. He said he'd take care of it.We did all have dinner together, but it was pizza delivery to the motel Dad's job was paying for. Dad I'd his boss. We never ate there again. I wasn't raised to hate skin color. Went to school with all types, all colors. Many ate at our dining table. I really remember this as if it a rerun over and over whenever I see any type of discrimination.
Reminder of the Jim Crow days. I had a coworker who went to a segregated school k to 12 in Mississippi.
Associate Judge, Circuit Court of Cook County; Chicago Bar Association Past President
6 年Very poignant reflections, Chief Mannino!
PO3/Investigator at Georgia Department of Public Safety (ret.)
6 年James Comey gave a very insightful speech several years ago at Georgetown University on this same topic. Chief Cunningham was castigated in some L.E. circles for his courageous, long overdue acknowledgement of law enforcement's self-inflicted wounds.
VP. Biz Dev - United Wounds Institute
6 年Carin - I hear YOU on what the picture gives out a sentiment -? That is far from Chris thoughts - that I know. .? Chris is a Striving-Fairness-Athlete. . ' Please take the opportunity to Commend his Slam-Dunks and guide him (when if he fouls). . This was not one. .? This was just a post from his Black-Museum - which I am certain does not promote SUPREMACY of anyone :-P? Peace?