Since Wiley G. Overton was sworn in as the first Black New York City police officer on March 6, 1891—earning recognition as the first official Black police officer in the United States—African American law enforcement officers have faced significant challenges, including ostracism, racism, and even violence, to prove that we, too, belong in the system of justice known as law enforcement.

Blacks in Law Enforcement of America (BLEA) honors the rich history of African American law enforcement professionals who have fought for our survival and advancement. Over 120 years later, we now have Black Commissioners and Chiefs leading law enforcement agencies. We will never forget those who paved the way, recognizing that we did not arrive here on our own.

BLEA acknowledges that true policing extends beyond law enforcement policies and procedures. Our mission includes advocating for improvements in education, economic development, and employment—factors that directly impact crime, safety, and the security of the communities we serve.

At BLEA, we continue to emphasize the term “Black” as inclusive of all people of color in law enforcement, highlighting the shared experiences and resilience of individuals of African, Afro-Caribbean, and Asian descent. We stand in opposition to the historical racial bias and systemic disparities embedded in our justice system.

We believe the fundamental purpose of law enforcement is to protect and serve—not to control the poor, exploit the economically disadvantaged, or take advantage of those without a voice.

To truly protect the communities we serve, BLEA advocates for:

1. Genuine Community Policing – Establishing true partnerships between law enforcement and communities to foster safer neighborhoods.
2. Resource Allocation for Crime Prevention – Prioritizing proactive crime prevention strategies over reactive policing at all levels of government.
3. Legislation to Keep Illegal Guns Off the Streets of Communities of Color – Supporting targeted policies to prevent the flow of illegal firearms into our neighborhoods.
4. Gang Prevention Legislation– Defining and combating street gang activity through targeted state and national policies.
5. Eliminating Police Brutality – Recognizing police brutality as a crime and ensuring it is confronted, controlled, and outlawed nationwide.
6. Independent Oversight of Police Misconduct – Establishing statewide special prosecutors to ensure transparency in cases involving police criminality, avoiding conflicts of interest with district attorneys.
7. Residency Requirements for Police Officers – Mandating that officers live in the communities they serve, fostering stronger community ties.
8. Racial Representation in Law Enforcement – Ensuring police departments reflect the racial and cultural makeup of the communities they protect.
9. Increased Oversight and Accountability – Calling on state and local officials to implement policies that ensure consistency, fairness, and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
10. Recognition of Women in Law Enforcement – Advocating for the fair representation and advancement of women in all ranks of policing.

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