College of Policing’s Post

It's #BlackHistoryMonth, and this year's theme is Reclaiming Narratives.   It's an invitation for Black communities to reshape how Black history is perceived and taught by stepping into the role of storyteller, historian or custodian.   This month we'll be putting a spotlight on the heroes (known and unsung) who have made an indelible impact on our communities and business landscapes. Spoiler: They may even include some of our own colleagues... Who will you be celebrating?   #blackbusinesses #blackownedbusinesses #BHM #ReclaimingNarratives

Not our City. Not our Mayor. Not our people. Not our community. Words Matter. #LestWeForget In today's episode, we delve into a topic often deeply ingrained in the fabric of our society: the history of derogatory language used to assault Black people and the Black community. We see this language, thinly veiled, and weaponized by politicians and public figures, who seek to undermine Black officials and discredit their achievements. This includes, the recent UNACCEPTABLE and insensitive comments made regarding the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, where there is a co-opting of this tragic moment of loss of life to voice ignorant views on diversity initiatives and wield remarks to assault our Baltimore officials. And, the recent “slip of tongue” usage of a racial slur by a Maryland senate candidate. No longer will we quietly tolerate the assaultive words and actions that seek to diminish Black people and Black communities. We will challenge the derogatory language with ABC unapologetically leading in doing so.   Let’s continue the conversation, share our stories, and stay tuned for more insightful explorations of Black history and its impact on our world today. Remember, history should not be forgotten – it should be understood.    

Black voices need to be centered in conversations about OUR experiences without navigating the constant need for validation from others. The focus should be on uplifting and amplifying Black narratives and perspectives, not overshadowing them. It is exhausting to have to address the needs and expectations of others constantly. We need spaces to speak freely about their experiences without interruption or dilution.

Thoughts from Ryan Knight on Black Enterprise Blog: Justice Department Finds 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre ‘Coordinated, Systematic Attack’🔹The DOJ investigation into the Tulsa massacre emphasizes the heinous nature of the attack and its impact on Greenwood's Black community. 🔹Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke described the violence as unprecedented in American history, highlighting the racist hostility and annihilation suffered by Black individuals. 🔹This profound historical event sheds light on the ongoing struggle for justice and equality faced by Black business owners and entrepreneurs. 🔹The resilience and strength of the Black community in the aftermath of such atrocities serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and advocacy. 🔹As we reflect on this dark chapter in history, let us continue to support and uplift Black businesses and entrepreneurs, striving for a more inclusive and equitable future. Inspired by Blog written by Daniel Johnson. View full blog post here: https://lnkd.in/gKNKHXFG

The theme for Black History Month 2024 is “Changing Narratives”. This month, we are committed to spotlight untold success stories of black people in the UK who have, and continue to contribute to our country’s cultural, social, economic, and political landscape. We change narratives as we: ·        Honour Our Heroes: Challenge the narratives that have often overlooked the contributions and achievements of Black individuals both in the UK and globally. ·        Embrace Our Stories: Take control of our stories, honour our heroes, and shine a light on the diverse and profound impact of Black individuals across various fields. ·        Empower and Educate: Join us in embracing, educating, and empowering one another through the stories that shape our collective identity.

I'm very proud to share this article I wrote about Fredericksburg's beloved "Mayor for Life," Reverend Lawrence Davies, who passed in early August. While he will be missed as a leader, a pastor, and a friend, he is part of a long history of Black political activism in the Fredericksburg area, which I've attempted to capture here: https://lnkd.in/ejXpy77i

Today is June 19th, or Juneteenth, the day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, however that proclamation did not instantly free all those enslaved. In 1865 on June 19th, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to ensure that the enslaved people were freed and officially end slavery in the United States. Celebrating Juneteenth is a great start, however there is still work that can be done every day. Work like embracing small-disadvantaged businesses in your supply chain. Showing support for black owned businesses and by amplifying black voices. Entrepreneur voices like Janice Bryant Howroyd, the founder and CEO of ActOne Group, the largest woman-minority owned workforce management company in the US and author of “The Art of Work”. Artists voices like Shonda Rimes who uses her talents and skills to create hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away With Murder. Not to mention the latest Netflix hit show Bridgerton. Historical voices like Rosa Parks who helped initiate the civil rights movement in the United States. Listen to the voices of those with stories to tell. Embrace the use of minority owned businesses and don’t just set a goal for the uses of these businesses, proactively work to exceed the goal. That is the work that can be done to celebrate Juneteenth every day.

Eight of us came together to share the Black figures who have profoundly shaped our lives. In our article, learn stories of strength, resistance and reclaiming the narrative - heroes who remind us to keep pushing forward... https://lnkd.in/e32Nvjmx #DiversityAndInclusion #TMPWorldwide

Black voices need to be centered in conversations about OUR experiences without navigating the constant need for validation from others. The focus should be on uplifting and amplifying Black narratives and perspectives, not overshadowing them. It is exhausting to have to address the needs and expectations of others constantly. We need spaces to speak freely about their experiences without interruption or dilution.