The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Responds to Attorney General Jeff Sessions “Anglo-American Heritage of Law Enforcement” Statement
ALEXANDRIA, VA – “The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives
(NOBLE) stands to support, provide ongoing training, and create an incubator for Blacks in law
enforcement at all levels across the nation and world. Recognizing the importance of the office
of sheriff, the duties associated with the role, and the disproportionately low number of Black
law enforcement officials serving in this capacity, it is important we recognize the many
contributions of these men and women. “The statements made by Attorney General Sessions
today should not detract from the advancements made in the office of the Sheriff. I am reminded
of Jacquelyn Barrett, the first Black female sheriff and a former NOBLE National President, she
paved the way for others,”- said NOBLE President Clarence E. Cox III.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we remind ourselves of the importance of diversity in all
segments of American society especially 21st Century Law Enforcement. Our membership is
proud of over 50 Sheriffs that are regular members of NOBLE. These men and women have held
senior leadership positions within NOBLE as well as other local, state, national, federal, and
international law enforcement organizations such as the National Sheriffs’ Association (Sheriff
B.J. Roberts), Virginia Sheriff’s Association (Sheriff Gabe Morgan) and Florida Sheriff’s
Association (Sheriff Jerry Demings).
The fight for equity in policing rages on and NOBLE is leading the charge for systemic change.
We are hosting the William R. Bracey CEO Symposium in the civil rights bellwether,
Birmingham, AL from March 22-24, 2018. Over 200 law enforcement chief executive officers,
senior leaders, policy makers and advocates will convene to discuss topics such as: “The
Roadmap to Equal Protection Under the Law”, “The Injustice of Justice” and “Building
Community Trust and Legitimacy.” There isn’t a more vital time than now to have these
discussions steeped in equity, racial reconciliation, community policing and the role law
enforcement plays in civil rights advocacy and practice. We invite the entire nation to join us as
we explore, discuss, and deliberate on the roadmap to equal protection and equal justice for
everyone.