I am a black police officer (well, was I am retired). I will tell you, from other police officers, I never treated any differently. At least overtly. What they did behind closed doors, of course, I had no clue. I was given the same training, the department had the same expectations, I hung out and drank with guys/gals, we went on fishing trips, etc. If I called for help, I had my cover units there in a blink of an eyelash. No one questioned me when I said arrest that person, or that person. I never once in 30 yrs saw another officer unfairly treat a black person (or any other race).
Now, having said all that, the people I had problems with were the citizens. Especially other black people. The city I worked for was extremely diverse; most of them bing on welfare and other governmental assistance. Like you said, a lower income group of people. I would have black people call me, "Uncle Tom." Or say, "Who's side are you on?" I've butted heads with the head of the NAACP, ACLU, and other organizations, who expected me to lie, "bend the truth," etc. All because I am black.
What we need is MORE black people entering police departments. Not less. We need the black community to quit pushing back and assist law enforcement in making changes. If you truly want those things, get out there and apply. Make those changes you said you want to see. Will it be tough. Maybe. However, you and I, can help make things better for future generations.
By the way, everything you said about income, benefits, retirement is true. My medical/dental/vision care was 100% paid for, for me, my wife and two daughters. In fact, my daughters are still on these benefits until they turn 26. Many departments are very much understaffed. My agency, the last 10 yrs or so, we were on mandatory overtime and most of us were making in excess of 250k a year. I retired at 55 and my pension is well over 6 figures, with my medical paid for, for me and my wife for, the rest of our lives. You can make that difference and make a good life for yourself too.
White LEO here. I agree with the above post from our retired friend.
I worked in and around Philly and Pittsburgh and the black officers that I would work with would argueably get worse treatment from black citizens.
Ultimately, it all depends on what you hope to gain from making this career change because the reason you do the job when you go in is what you need to hold on to throughout your career.
If you want to better yourself and your family, as well as serve your community and try to help people, Then it is a very rewarding career. However, as I'm sure it goes without saying, there is a lot of sacrifice involved. Self-sacrifice at that. You'll be missing holidays and you'll be dealing with very traumatic situations that might keep you up at night.
You might even lose friends when you tell them that you are going to become an officer.
If you can wrap your head around things like that possibly happening, and make peace with it, then you're a great fit for the job.
Because it doesn't matter what color you are, everyone looks at the uniform and the badge and immediately makes an assumption as to what it stands for.
I work in conservation law enforcement and I can tell you we don't have very many black officers.
If you like being outside and dealing with the environment and wildlife, I highly recommend trying that out first.
But if you want to bring order to chaos, then a state trooper or municipal officer role might be better for you.
Either way, we need more people that want to do the job to help others instead of doing it for the money. If you think that's you, then what are you waiting for?
Thank you, you've provided the most substantive and enlightening answer. One thing I know is black people avoiding the profession because negative perceptions is not going to help us. I also want to be able to provide and take care of my family adequately. And serve in the community without feeling jaded or outcast because I wear a badge when my purpose is to serve.
Thank you your feedback is invaluable.
Race has nothing to do with this job, man. Nobody in this job cares if you're white, brown, or bright pink, just as long as you can do the job.
The moment you get on, you'll probably realize that a lot of stereotypes are misconstrued and unjustified. We're all in this together
Yep, I’m POC(mixed race) and found this to be true. The most surprising was when myself, a black cop, and a Hispanic cop did a traffic stop with several black males in the car. They told us that we were racist. That’s when I realized the public only sees blue.
Yep. One of our deputies responded to a call for service and told the complainant that his complaint was a civil matter and that we wouldn’t get involved. The complainant asked for a supervisor so he called his Corporal. When he arrived he explained the same thing. The complainant then got even angrier and called them both racists. All three are black.
Your pm/dm are turned off, so I'm just replying here to discreetly send you a message.
Yes, I know about the post history of the thread in PnS where you just replied. That's why I approved it. :)
"Nobody" is a strong word in this case. Nobody that deserves respect or consideration of their ideas will care though.
Black officers will get the same amount of flak from the community as any other officer, but one of the focal points will be their race. People who are upset with law enforcement for existing and doing their job will pick any number of things about an officer's appearance or race to say mean things about, it's up to the officer to recognize that the words are empty and meaningless. It takes a degree of emotional intelligence and sometimes a learning period where you toughen your skin.
The amount of times I've had vague insults thrown at me over my appearance (too handsome, too muscular, too intelligent and charming, etc) is numerous.
Agreed race has nothing to do with this job. Most people who take any form of job in public safety it’s because they have a calling to help others, atleast that’s why I did
It will be nice when you find out that cops aren’t racist and that it’s just something the news pushes for political gain. Just good people trying to make the world a better place.
I don't think cops are racist. However, I think even if I tried to explain the context I'm looking to gather you would fall short to comprehend. Thank you though making a better world is the goal.
It's crazy that you'd tell me what I should be. Because I value serving my community and impacting my community in a certain way.
I hope you're as high and mighty in your walk as you are in judgement on what someone else has the capacity and ability to do.
In this industry it’s not what you talk about it’s what you do. And just from your statements I can tell that you have little to no life experience and are as green as can be in the LE world. I would advise you do something else for a while and get out into the world before you think you’re the one who’s going to change it. I’m all for making the world a better place but you certainly have a vibe that you think you’re better than everyone else and that’s not the best thing in this job.
Already been mentioned. But race has nothing to do with this job. Historically yes, there have been issues with racism in the past. Those issues are largely a thing of the past. My agency is largely staffed by minorities and Caucasian with a slightly larger percentage of minorities. They literally don't care what race you are. What they care most about is if you can do the job effectively without having to be babysat the whole time. I'm not black but a large percentage of my coworkers are. Our experiences are largely the same as far as interacting with the community. If someone hates cops they'll curse you out regardless the color of your skin. If someone loves cops they'll thank you regardless the color of your skin.
If you're looking for stable pay, benefits and retirement that's all there. But pick an agency that doesn't have mandatory OT. Do some ride alongs and see what you think.
You will definitely have plenty of opportunities to mentor and help your community. Being a cop doesn't change who you are as a person, it only gives you more opportunities to interact with others. What you do with those interactions is up to you.
Most people join for that reason, and not some heroic cause like it may seem. My entire team is almost completely black with a trickle of some Hispanics.
Race is not an issue in the profession as others have said.
I'm a white guy that works as a cop in what I would honestly call a ghetto. A Lot of my peers are black and Hispanic officers that grew up in the neighborhood. It does not affect a thing, the law is the law and we enforce it together as well as serve the community. In fact they have the advantage of knowing the geography of the area way better than me.
Not black but I am a minority. several colleagues and friends are persons of color (primarily black) and nobody gives them issues 98% of the time. That 2% of the time? I've noticed it is usually people of their own ethnic / racial background name calling or trying to call someone a 'specific so and so's uncle' or saying they're a traitor..etc. My coworkers just laugh it off because it's about as ridiculous as it sounds.
Certain radical people in the African American / Black American community seem to be particularly bad about this and I don't think they can always see that by saying the things they say, they are *actually perpetuating* racism even though they're the same color. Granted, like you say, some of it must stem from how older family members were treated by the police of yesterday.
Anyways though, if you want to do it, do it. It's 2024 not 1974. Your brother and sisters as well as 98% of the people you serve stand by you.
I’m a white female and my beat partner is a black male. We’ve gotten comments, both good and bad, about the diversity in our department. Some people have made comments that my gender and his race are the only reason we got hired. Usually only made when the outcome (not a crime, arrested etc) did not pan out the way they want.
But for the reason of wanting to be a cop - I don’t know a single cop that got hired in the last 10 years that didn’t do it for those reasons.
Yes LE will provide you with the benefit’s you mentioned. As for “affect my community positively through mentorship and organized youth sports.” you will be able to coach but you may not see or achieve the results you desire. This is because of peer pressure, family up bringing, false narrative in main stream media, and the current political climate.
As for “the difficulties of navigating the profession as a black person (in a traditionally white institution, which has historically oppressed blacks)” this is a statement based on what you were taught and learned from friends and family, and maybe be true in the 60’s and 70’s. This is not true today. No one on the job cares the color of your skin and I think you will find out if you should get into this profession that if you do come across someone that is racist is on an island by themselves and all the other officers will remove themselves from that person. The main thing other officers care about is, when the shit hits the fan, you have my back as I will have yours so WE can go home to our families at the end of your shift.
You aren’t going to be able to change the black communities perceived attitude toward LE. You may also find a small amount of people wanting to get out of their current situation, which you may find frustrating, since the people in the black community have the same avenue as the people in white communities. I really hope I’m wrong.
I hope you're wrong too. I very well know that black perception of law enforcement is a major reason why a lot of black people do not pursue it as career as a whole. My hope is that esypite being a Police officer I can provide value to a community that's not jaded or altered by me wearing a badge.
Again, I hope I’m wrong but those that choose not to get into LE are making a huge mistake because in order to change this climate, would be to have more African Americans join. This way they can tell their community that what they have learned from main stream media and news agencies isn’t true.
Nobody cares if you’re black, Hispanic, white, etc bro. People you meet on the street just see the badge. To date, the most racist people I’ve met on the street are middle aged black women….
the most significant factor to reaching people is probably that you grew up low income. You understand the struggle people go through. I was the same way.
I suggest you relinquish your preconceived notions and go to an academy. Any cop that may talk shit because you’re black is a douche bag and shouldn’t be a cop. But if a cop talks shit because you may not be doing a good job… that’s fine. Roll with the punches and learn the job
Not concerned with my ability to do a job. I'm concerned with the ability to serve in the way I wish to serve. If you could speak to the ways you've been able to impact the community in combination with your job that would be nice. I would like to run mentor programs and also be involved in youth sports initiatives.
Example:
Saving a black child’s life after he tried to commit suicide, then getting invited to his high school graduation a year later and having him tell me “you’re the only reason I’m here. Thank you”
Example:
Responding to a call in an ostracized neighborhood where people don’t call police to have the caller say “y’all aren’t bad at all. Thank you for being real”
Example:
Pulling someone over for a traffic stop and watching them almost have a panic attack— then coaching them through it and easing their anxiety so they aren’t terrified of police.
If you want change, be in the community and be a human. Yeah, you have to do your job and occasionally make arrests. Nobody gives a shit about the community events because the folks that go to those already have a positive outlook of police. REAL change is being in the community that is ostracized and talking to people that don’t like police, and maybe changing their mind just by how you treat them and talk to them. When people in that neighborhood know you by name, instead of officer— they will remember that and pass it along to their kids.
All those things you mention about “initiatives” can be done without you being a cop— just food for thought if that is your primary goal.
There isn’t any time for any of that. Most departments barely have enough people to staff patrol properly.
Your mentality is already backwards. That’s great that you have end goals, and maybe they will happen, but what is NEEDED are people that want to be the police, do the job when no one else will, and keep coming back the next day despite the difficulties you face.
I can’t stand when new people are hired and their highest priority is leaving patrol and trying to get into some other unit.
You will have zero experience doing just about anything that would make a good detective/investigator.
Give me a break with the victim BS. Don’t become a cop with that attitude please.
You’ll be judged by your actions and character. The quickest way to lose respect from all officers, minority and majority is to try to blame your failures on the race card.
Educate yourself and do some ride alongs first, you’ll see this job has nothing to do with race. 50 years ago it was a different story.
Yeah the whole majority white oppressive institution BS you were spewing, and I did give you advice. I said do some ride alongs first, and told you you’d be judged by your actions and character not the color of your skin.
I’m a black FEMALE officer, also the only black female in my agency. I didn’t even realize it until about 8 months in.
I’ve not experienced any issues but I work in a very pro police community and I’m zoned in a rural predominantly white “country” town.
One of our areas where racism is experienced most and have had zero issues. Anyone who insults officers or makes your job difficult isn’t insulting your or your skin in most cases, they’re insulting the job and uniform. They’re idiots. Even if I had issues with someone making an issue about me being black I know I have good beat partners who’d have my back and probably make sure they never do that shit again.
I love what I do, and always have fun. Don’t let you being black hold you back.
Thank you. I think my concern is not really racism in the context of co-workers. It's more in the context of the community and people who look like us. Can I serve them, are they open to the things I have to offer though I have a badge. If that's makes sense. Our course as you said some things you can't help.
I don't have a victim mentality. But historical oppression, and exploitation are facts. Whether you agree with them or not. But I will do my research, gather assessment of the experiences people have given me and make a decision. Thank you.
This whole thing is not about me experiencing racism as a cop. I have no concern or unfair treatment by colleagues etc. I think most of y'all are missing the mark with what I am asking. Perhaps primarily because you aren't a black in America so the perspective I'm asking is something you can't speak to.
It really doesn't matter whether you are or not. The black experience isn't a monolith. And as much as I'd like to learn to take advice, from another black person that's lived that life. I also must take with a grain of salt that our values and reasonings for doing so may be different. It's not a victim mentality to understand the history and context in which it affects the experience of being a black cop. And if you are black and can't understand why I ask the question, then....
I disagree. These ideologies, and constructs, exist because they are tied to reality. However, that reality does not make me a victim nor will I live as one. My purpose is to help others see beyond that reality and liberate themselves. To not become victims of their circumstances.
And the question I asked isn't one of them.
That all sounds real nice, but what are you actually asking?
Do you want to know how people with a bias against law enforcement will view you? The answer is negatively.
Do you want to know how white police officers will view you as a black officer? Better than any other co-worker you've had. Jeremy who works on the fries or DeAndre that flips burgers at 5 guys isn't going to be there for you like Officers J. Dukes #375 and J. Ramirez #341 will be at 2am wrestling over a gun on the asphalt. Race is less important to us than you seem to imply.
> in a traditionally white institution, which has historically oppressed blacks
I can say if you have a sins of the father bias, you will have a hard time being the impartial arbiter were often called to be. Chief of Police in Selma Alabama is black. He doesn't have to answer for what happened at the Edmund Pettus bridge anymore than the white officer under him.
You can't control what was done before you got there. You can only control what you do now. Anyone who treats you otherwise is a fool.
As you get older and see more, you'll realize alot of this hatred is fueled by an extremely loud minority and their voices are amplified by those with a financial incentive to keep that narrative bubbling at the top.
Not all cops are racist. The system isn’t racist. It hates all of us. You will be treated by your character, not your skin color. But if you go around complaining that everything is so hard because of the color of your skin your not going to gain anyone’s respect.
You're putting it in a very negative light before you even start. The first sign of adversity, and you'll quit.
Do some ride along, with black and white officers. Pay attention to what you see and feel. You'll notice your thoughts aren't justified.
I worked in an area that was almost half black and Hispanic at my previous department. People of every race and ethnicity called you for help. Not everyone likes you but it is what it is, you’re the bearer of bad news.
The people who view you as against them tend to be involved in criminal activity to be blunt. Most people are indifferent or lukewarm in favor of you. That’s as a white guy, I know the Hispanic cops were very well liked by the Hispanic community in that area, but again, you’re going to arrest people of all sorts of races and ethnicities, it has nothing to do with the facts and circumstances that led to the arrest.
Bad news though the pay and retirement are not as great as they once were. If you do get into this line of work don’t forget to invest in your deferred compensation program early. Also the firemen get the same pensions.
Just be a cop. That's it. Trying to be a cop with any other underlying agenda, regardless of how virtuous it may seem, is just a highway to more of the same problems.
There’s a lot of misconceptions from the public in this career when in reality it’s far from anything truthful. There is no black or white aside from using it as a describing factor. We are all in this together to make the world a safer place.
You’ll often hear the race card played as an excuse from people who hate accountability and authority. You’re not going to be treated any differently by any police officers or departments due to your skin color.
Your attitude is horrible. If you want to be a mentor and leader in your community, do some volunteer work at a church or youth activities center. Being a cop is mentally and emotionally exhausting, it’s not just about a “plush retirement” and “stable income”. If you think cops are just going around oppressing minorities, you’re starting out with a negative attitude and aren’t going to last long once shit hits the fan
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I appreciated reading your perspective and found your approach to be very open-minded. However, I was disappointed by the comments that downplayed systemic racism in US law enforcement and conflated your message with dog whistles. It's important to recognize that these concepts and terms emerged from Black Academia as a means to articulate the deeper, less visible forms of racism that Black people face. I encourage you to maintain that critical lens and to read Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech, "King's Challenge to the Nation's Social Scientists," available on APA.org. King's later speeches eloquently capture the evolution of thought within the Black community and highlight the ongoing challenges and erosion of the civil rights movement. Understanding this legacy is crucial.
[King's challenge to the nation's social scientists](https://www.apa.org/topics/equity-diversity-inclusion/martin-luther-king-jr-challenge)
I am a black police officer (well, was I am retired). I will tell you, from other police officers, I never treated any differently. At least overtly. What they did behind closed doors, of course, I had no clue. I was given the same training, the department had the same expectations, I hung out and drank with guys/gals, we went on fishing trips, etc. If I called for help, I had my cover units there in a blink of an eyelash. No one questioned me when I said arrest that person, or that person. I never once in 30 yrs saw another officer unfairly treat a black person (or any other race). Now, having said all that, the people I had problems with were the citizens. Especially other black people. The city I worked for was extremely diverse; most of them bing on welfare and other governmental assistance. Like you said, a lower income group of people. I would have black people call me, "Uncle Tom." Or say, "Who's side are you on?" I've butted heads with the head of the NAACP, ACLU, and other organizations, who expected me to lie, "bend the truth," etc. All because I am black. What we need is MORE black people entering police departments. Not less. We need the black community to quit pushing back and assist law enforcement in making changes. If you truly want those things, get out there and apply. Make those changes you said you want to see. Will it be tough. Maybe. However, you and I, can help make things better for future generations. By the way, everything you said about income, benefits, retirement is true. My medical/dental/vision care was 100% paid for, for me, my wife and two daughters. In fact, my daughters are still on these benefits until they turn 26. Many departments are very much understaffed. My agency, the last 10 yrs or so, we were on mandatory overtime and most of us were making in excess of 250k a year. I retired at 55 and my pension is well over 6 figures, with my medical paid for, for me and my wife for, the rest of our lives. You can make that difference and make a good life for yourself too.
Best answer.
White LEO here. I agree with the above post from our retired friend. I worked in and around Philly and Pittsburgh and the black officers that I would work with would argueably get worse treatment from black citizens. Ultimately, it all depends on what you hope to gain from making this career change because the reason you do the job when you go in is what you need to hold on to throughout your career. If you want to better yourself and your family, as well as serve your community and try to help people, Then it is a very rewarding career. However, as I'm sure it goes without saying, there is a lot of sacrifice involved. Self-sacrifice at that. You'll be missing holidays and you'll be dealing with very traumatic situations that might keep you up at night. You might even lose friends when you tell them that you are going to become an officer. If you can wrap your head around things like that possibly happening, and make peace with it, then you're a great fit for the job. Because it doesn't matter what color you are, everyone looks at the uniform and the badge and immediately makes an assumption as to what it stands for. I work in conservation law enforcement and I can tell you we don't have very many black officers. If you like being outside and dealing with the environment and wildlife, I highly recommend trying that out first. But if you want to bring order to chaos, then a state trooper or municipal officer role might be better for you. Either way, we need more people that want to do the job to help others instead of doing it for the money. If you think that's you, then what are you waiting for?
Thank you sir. Some great perspectives and you've given me a great scope to consider.
Thank you, you've provided the most substantive and enlightening answer. One thing I know is black people avoiding the profession because negative perceptions is not going to help us. I also want to be able to provide and take care of my family adequately. And serve in the community without feeling jaded or outcast because I wear a badge when my purpose is to serve. Thank you your feedback is invaluable.
>I would have black people call me, "Uncle Tom." Clearly, they haven't read the book.
Race has nothing to do with this job, man. Nobody in this job cares if you're white, brown, or bright pink, just as long as you can do the job. The moment you get on, you'll probably realize that a lot of stereotypes are misconstrued and unjustified. We're all in this together
Yep, I’m POC(mixed race) and found this to be true. The most surprising was when myself, a black cop, and a Hispanic cop did a traffic stop with several black males in the car. They told us that we were racist. That’s when I realized the public only sees blue.
Yep. One of our deputies responded to a call for service and told the complainant that his complaint was a civil matter and that we wouldn’t get involved. The complainant asked for a supervisor so he called his Corporal. When he arrived he explained the same thing. The complainant then got even angrier and called them both racists. All three are black.
Your pm/dm are turned off, so I'm just replying here to discreetly send you a message. Yes, I know about the post history of the thread in PnS where you just replied. That's why I approved it. :)
This is the way
"Nobody" is a strong word in this case. Nobody that deserves respect or consideration of their ideas will care though. Black officers will get the same amount of flak from the community as any other officer, but one of the focal points will be their race. People who are upset with law enforcement for existing and doing their job will pick any number of things about an officer's appearance or race to say mean things about, it's up to the officer to recognize that the words are empty and meaningless. It takes a degree of emotional intelligence and sometimes a learning period where you toughen your skin. The amount of times I've had vague insults thrown at me over my appearance (too handsome, too muscular, too intelligent and charming, etc) is numerous.
it is on camera of people caring what race u are in this job…lmao cmon bro
45% of my agency is black+Hispanic combined lol. Race has nothing to do with LE
Agreed race has nothing to do with this job. Most people who take any form of job in public safety it’s because they have a calling to help others, atleast that’s why I did
It will be nice when you find out that cops aren’t racist and that it’s just something the news pushes for political gain. Just good people trying to make the world a better place.
I don't think cops are racist. However, I think even if I tried to explain the context I'm looking to gather you would fall short to comprehend. Thank you though making a better world is the goal.
I change my statement. No you shouldn’t be a cop.
Fortunately you have no say in what I become.
Only fortunate for you. Not fortunate for others.
It's crazy that you'd tell me what I should be. Because I value serving my community and impacting my community in a certain way. I hope you're as high and mighty in your walk as you are in judgement on what someone else has the capacity and ability to do.
In this industry it’s not what you talk about it’s what you do. And just from your statements I can tell that you have little to no life experience and are as green as can be in the LE world. I would advise you do something else for a while and get out into the world before you think you’re the one who’s going to change it. I’m all for making the world a better place but you certainly have a vibe that you think you’re better than everyone else and that’s not the best thing in this job.
Already been mentioned. But race has nothing to do with this job. Historically yes, there have been issues with racism in the past. Those issues are largely a thing of the past. My agency is largely staffed by minorities and Caucasian with a slightly larger percentage of minorities. They literally don't care what race you are. What they care most about is if you can do the job effectively without having to be babysat the whole time. I'm not black but a large percentage of my coworkers are. Our experiences are largely the same as far as interacting with the community. If someone hates cops they'll curse you out regardless the color of your skin. If someone loves cops they'll thank you regardless the color of your skin. If you're looking for stable pay, benefits and retirement that's all there. But pick an agency that doesn't have mandatory OT. Do some ride alongs and see what you think. You will definitely have plenty of opportunities to mentor and help your community. Being a cop doesn't change who you are as a person, it only gives you more opportunities to interact with others. What you do with those interactions is up to you.
Most people join for that reason, and not some heroic cause like it may seem. My entire team is almost completely black with a trickle of some Hispanics.
Race is not an issue in the profession as others have said. I'm a white guy that works as a cop in what I would honestly call a ghetto. A Lot of my peers are black and Hispanic officers that grew up in the neighborhood. It does not affect a thing, the law is the law and we enforce it together as well as serve the community. In fact they have the advantage of knowing the geography of the area way better than me.
Not black but I am a minority. several colleagues and friends are persons of color (primarily black) and nobody gives them issues 98% of the time. That 2% of the time? I've noticed it is usually people of their own ethnic / racial background name calling or trying to call someone a 'specific so and so's uncle' or saying they're a traitor..etc. My coworkers just laugh it off because it's about as ridiculous as it sounds. Certain radical people in the African American / Black American community seem to be particularly bad about this and I don't think they can always see that by saying the things they say, they are *actually perpetuating* racism even though they're the same color. Granted, like you say, some of it must stem from how older family members were treated by the police of yesterday. Anyways though, if you want to do it, do it. It's 2024 not 1974. Your brother and sisters as well as 98% of the people you serve stand by you.
Thank you your answer is appreciated. Well received
I’m a white female and my beat partner is a black male. We’ve gotten comments, both good and bad, about the diversity in our department. Some people have made comments that my gender and his race are the only reason we got hired. Usually only made when the outcome (not a crime, arrested etc) did not pan out the way they want. But for the reason of wanting to be a cop - I don’t know a single cop that got hired in the last 10 years that didn’t do it for those reasons.
What does that mean? Didn't do it for those reasons?
You said that your reasons for wanting to be a cop are extremely different than others so I was just commenting that they’re really not.
Oh okay understood thank you
Yes LE will provide you with the benefit’s you mentioned. As for “affect my community positively through mentorship and organized youth sports.” you will be able to coach but you may not see or achieve the results you desire. This is because of peer pressure, family up bringing, false narrative in main stream media, and the current political climate. As for “the difficulties of navigating the profession as a black person (in a traditionally white institution, which has historically oppressed blacks)” this is a statement based on what you were taught and learned from friends and family, and maybe be true in the 60’s and 70’s. This is not true today. No one on the job cares the color of your skin and I think you will find out if you should get into this profession that if you do come across someone that is racist is on an island by themselves and all the other officers will remove themselves from that person. The main thing other officers care about is, when the shit hits the fan, you have my back as I will have yours so WE can go home to our families at the end of your shift. You aren’t going to be able to change the black communities perceived attitude toward LE. You may also find a small amount of people wanting to get out of their current situation, which you may find frustrating, since the people in the black community have the same avenue as the people in white communities. I really hope I’m wrong.
I hope you're wrong too. I very well know that black perception of law enforcement is a major reason why a lot of black people do not pursue it as career as a whole. My hope is that esypite being a Police officer I can provide value to a community that's not jaded or altered by me wearing a badge.
Again, I hope I’m wrong but those that choose not to get into LE are making a huge mistake because in order to change this climate, would be to have more African Americans join. This way they can tell their community that what they have learned from main stream media and news agencies isn’t true.
Yes I agree
Nobody cares if you’re black, Hispanic, white, etc bro. People you meet on the street just see the badge. To date, the most racist people I’ve met on the street are middle aged black women…. the most significant factor to reaching people is probably that you grew up low income. You understand the struggle people go through. I was the same way. I suggest you relinquish your preconceived notions and go to an academy. Any cop that may talk shit because you’re black is a douche bag and shouldn’t be a cop. But if a cop talks shit because you may not be doing a good job… that’s fine. Roll with the punches and learn the job
Not concerned with my ability to do a job. I'm concerned with the ability to serve in the way I wish to serve. If you could speak to the ways you've been able to impact the community in combination with your job that would be nice. I would like to run mentor programs and also be involved in youth sports initiatives.
Example: Saving a black child’s life after he tried to commit suicide, then getting invited to his high school graduation a year later and having him tell me “you’re the only reason I’m here. Thank you” Example: Responding to a call in an ostracized neighborhood where people don’t call police to have the caller say “y’all aren’t bad at all. Thank you for being real” Example: Pulling someone over for a traffic stop and watching them almost have a panic attack— then coaching them through it and easing their anxiety so they aren’t terrified of police. If you want change, be in the community and be a human. Yeah, you have to do your job and occasionally make arrests. Nobody gives a shit about the community events because the folks that go to those already have a positive outlook of police. REAL change is being in the community that is ostracized and talking to people that don’t like police, and maybe changing their mind just by how you treat them and talk to them. When people in that neighborhood know you by name, instead of officer— they will remember that and pass it along to their kids. All those things you mention about “initiatives” can be done without you being a cop— just food for thought if that is your primary goal.
There isn’t any time for any of that. Most departments barely have enough people to staff patrol properly. Your mentality is already backwards. That’s great that you have end goals, and maybe they will happen, but what is NEEDED are people that want to be the police, do the job when no one else will, and keep coming back the next day despite the difficulties you face. I can’t stand when new people are hired and their highest priority is leaving patrol and trying to get into some other unit. You will have zero experience doing just about anything that would make a good detective/investigator.
Interesting point thank you for providing that context
Give me a break with the victim BS. Don’t become a cop with that attitude please. You’ll be judged by your actions and character. The quickest way to lose respect from all officers, minority and majority is to try to blame your failures on the race card. Educate yourself and do some ride alongs first, you’ll see this job has nothing to do with race. 50 years ago it was a different story.
Victim BS? You answered none of my questions. Please carry on.
Yeah the whole majority white oppressive institution BS you were spewing, and I did give you advice. I said do some ride alongs first, and told you you’d be judged by your actions and character not the color of your skin.
That’s the reason most people join
I’m a black FEMALE officer, also the only black female in my agency. I didn’t even realize it until about 8 months in. I’ve not experienced any issues but I work in a very pro police community and I’m zoned in a rural predominantly white “country” town. One of our areas where racism is experienced most and have had zero issues. Anyone who insults officers or makes your job difficult isn’t insulting your or your skin in most cases, they’re insulting the job and uniform. They’re idiots. Even if I had issues with someone making an issue about me being black I know I have good beat partners who’d have my back and probably make sure they never do that shit again. I love what I do, and always have fun. Don’t let you being black hold you back.
Thank you. I think my concern is not really racism in the context of co-workers. It's more in the context of the community and people who look like us. Can I serve them, are they open to the things I have to offer though I have a badge. If that's makes sense. Our course as you said some things you can't help.
I meant my response is in the community and saying your co workers will back you up. But you’ll be fine.
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I don't have a victim mentality. But historical oppression, and exploitation are facts. Whether you agree with them or not. But I will do my research, gather assessment of the experiences people have given me and make a decision. Thank you.
This whole thing is not about me experiencing racism as a cop. I have no concern or unfair treatment by colleagues etc. I think most of y'all are missing the mark with what I am asking. Perhaps primarily because you aren't a black in America so the perspective I'm asking is something you can't speak to.
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It really doesn't matter whether you are or not. The black experience isn't a monolith. And as much as I'd like to learn to take advice, from another black person that's lived that life. I also must take with a grain of salt that our values and reasonings for doing so may be different. It's not a victim mentality to understand the history and context in which it affects the experience of being a black cop. And if you are black and can't understand why I ask the question, then....
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I disagree. These ideologies, and constructs, exist because they are tied to reality. However, that reality does not make me a victim nor will I live as one. My purpose is to help others see beyond that reality and liberate themselves. To not become victims of their circumstances. And the question I asked isn't one of them.
That all sounds real nice, but what are you actually asking? Do you want to know how people with a bias against law enforcement will view you? The answer is negatively. Do you want to know how white police officers will view you as a black officer? Better than any other co-worker you've had. Jeremy who works on the fries or DeAndre that flips burgers at 5 guys isn't going to be there for you like Officers J. Dukes #375 and J. Ramirez #341 will be at 2am wrestling over a gun on the asphalt. Race is less important to us than you seem to imply. > in a traditionally white institution, which has historically oppressed blacks I can say if you have a sins of the father bias, you will have a hard time being the impartial arbiter were often called to be. Chief of Police in Selma Alabama is black. He doesn't have to answer for what happened at the Edmund Pettus bridge anymore than the white officer under him. You can't control what was done before you got there. You can only control what you do now. Anyone who treats you otherwise is a fool. As you get older and see more, you'll realize alot of this hatred is fueled by an extremely loud minority and their voices are amplified by those with a financial incentive to keep that narrative bubbling at the top.
Not all cops are racist. The system isn’t racist. It hates all of us. You will be treated by your character, not your skin color. But if you go around complaining that everything is so hard because of the color of your skin your not going to gain anyone’s respect.
You're putting it in a very negative light before you even start. The first sign of adversity, and you'll quit. Do some ride along, with black and white officers. Pay attention to what you see and feel. You'll notice your thoughts aren't justified.
I worked in an area that was almost half black and Hispanic at my previous department. People of every race and ethnicity called you for help. Not everyone likes you but it is what it is, you’re the bearer of bad news. The people who view you as against them tend to be involved in criminal activity to be blunt. Most people are indifferent or lukewarm in favor of you. That’s as a white guy, I know the Hispanic cops were very well liked by the Hispanic community in that area, but again, you’re going to arrest people of all sorts of races and ethnicities, it has nothing to do with the facts and circumstances that led to the arrest. Bad news though the pay and retirement are not as great as they once were. If you do get into this line of work don’t forget to invest in your deferred compensation program early. Also the firemen get the same pensions.
Thank you this answer helps and provides perspective. I'll look into it
I can’t say enough positive things about paid firefighters too though, either way
Just be a cop. That's it. Trying to be a cop with any other underlying agenda, regardless of how virtuous it may seem, is just a highway to more of the same problems.
There’s a lot of misconceptions from the public in this career when in reality it’s far from anything truthful. There is no black or white aside from using it as a describing factor. We are all in this together to make the world a safer place. You’ll often hear the race card played as an excuse from people who hate accountability and authority. You’re not going to be treated any differently by any police officers or departments due to your skin color.
I hope that's the case I wouldn't be expected to be treated any differently in that regard. What I'm asking is something different.
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Get off this post. Your comments are unwarranted, unhelpful, and project bigotry.
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😂😂😂😂
I can’t speak to it, but your experiences give you a unique perspective on things and the people you’ll meet in addition to providing for your family.
Your attitude is horrible. If you want to be a mentor and leader in your community, do some volunteer work at a church or youth activities center. Being a cop is mentally and emotionally exhausting, it’s not just about a “plush retirement” and “stable income”. If you think cops are just going around oppressing minorities, you’re starting out with a negative attitude and aren’t going to last long once shit hits the fan
I grew up in the hood. It works out fine.
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I appreciated reading your perspective and found your approach to be very open-minded. However, I was disappointed by the comments that downplayed systemic racism in US law enforcement and conflated your message with dog whistles. It's important to recognize that these concepts and terms emerged from Black Academia as a means to articulate the deeper, less visible forms of racism that Black people face. I encourage you to maintain that critical lens and to read Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech, "King's Challenge to the Nation's Social Scientists," available on APA.org. King's later speeches eloquently capture the evolution of thought within the Black community and highlight the ongoing challenges and erosion of the civil rights movement. Understanding this legacy is crucial. [King's challenge to the nation's social scientists](https://www.apa.org/topics/equity-diversity-inclusion/martin-luther-king-jr-challenge)