The Value Of Minority Perspectives In Law Enforcement

Last week, one of our Lansdale Police Officers was subjected to the bigoted rantings of a resident in need. The officers, who performed their job with absolute distinction and grace, continued to try and administer aide to this individual despite the continued onslaught of racist epitaphs and threats. Eventually, the event ended when the resident became more aggressive with officers and was subdued with a Taser. I could not be prouder of the officers who handled this event. Their professionalism and training shone through in this moment and they deescalated the situation appropriately. However, the event itself is disturbing, though not surprising.

According to LPD Chief Trail, who has decades of law enforcement experience, “the litany of verbal abuse officers suffer in the performance of their duties run from simple name calling to the vile statements the officer in this case was subjected. Thankfully, police across this nation, and LPD, are professionals and deflect these verbal assaults and move on to help others.”

Often when we think of fighting for equity and equality, we think in terms of “us versus them,” “officers versus protestors.” However, that is not the reality of our world. Minority officers are facing some of the same discrimination and hateful language that so many people face in their daily life. Often, they get to see people when they are at their worst. When they are intoxicated, high, belligerent and otherwise downright hateful to officers and those around them. Which means when minority officers respond to a call, they walk in knowing that it is possible that the event could take an ugly turn quickly. Sadly, it is a reality of the job and one that is all too familiar for anyone who grew up a minority.

While this challenge is more than unfortunate, and worth decrying, officers of minority status are so incredibly valuable in the field because they have a perspective that many others simply cannot replicate. That perspective creates a deeper level of awareness and empathy toward members of our community in new and different ways. Our Lansdale Police Department is excellent. Proof of that is in the management of the events the other night. However, we need more officers of color, more female officers, and more officers of a variety of faiths. We need their perspective of the world, and of law enforcement, to help our department continue to grow and change over time.

Police officers have incredibly stressful and difficult jobs. They are asked to do so much above and beyond law enforcement, while also taking the brunt of some of the ugliest sides of society. It is an honor to work with so many officers who truly care about our community, our residents and one another. To those, especially those of minority status, who are looking for a way to contribute; to fix the challenges we see in the world. I would encourage you to consider becoming an officer. Your perspective and your understanding of our world will help us all grow and improve our communities immensely.

In fact, this fall Chief Trail and I will be asking Borough Council for approval to begin the hiring process. We will, as always, be looking for a diverse group of candidates who believe they have the necessary skills and passion to be a Lansdale Police Officer and we look forward to helping our department continue to grow.