video: Rep. Almeida Joins Movement for Black Major in Providence Police
Tuesday, November 03, 2015
Representative Joe Almeida joined the group calling on Providence Major Jorge Elorza to appoint a black Major to Providence Police department, as over 70 supporters rallied outside City Hall on Monday in support.
VIDEO: See Community Organizer Kobi Dennis Speak to the Black Major Movement ABOVE
“It shouldn’t be that anyone’s only contact with the police comes from things like traffic stops or arrests. People in the neighborhoods need to see police who are just walking the beat, knowing and interacting with people and being part of the community’s events. People need to feel that the police are on their side, and are there to keep them safe. I wouldn’t say we’re there yet, so work needs to be done,” said Representative Almeida in. “Seeing more officers who look like them, and having more of those officers in positions where they are helping to set the direction of the department, would be a step in that direction.”
In March, African-American leaders in the state were calling for more diversity the leadership ranks in law enforcement in Rhode Island, following a study that showed African American and Latinos represent less than 5% of supervisory positions within law enforcement.
"Providence police do not have a black officer above the rank of Sergeant and they have just one black female -- period," said Jim Vincent, President of the Providence NAACP branch at the time. "The lack of diversity makes those jobs for those officers harder. We see what happens when there's not a diversity in leadership -- Ferguson is a prime example."
Rally Focus
The rally Monday drew dozens of supporters to City Hall, including political and community leaders.
“We’re hoping a decision is made regarding the Black Major Movement,” said Allen Williams, President of the #300 Men. “We just want to know where the administration stands, where the Mayor stands, where law enforcement stands, because it’s something the community really wants to have in place and its a reflection of the community, and it would be great for the city and community as a whole.”
Related Slideshow: Male African American Leaders in RI - 2015
GoLocal asked some of the leaders in Rhode Island who are African-American about their experience with police - read what they have to say and their suggestions to improve the relationship.
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