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.