New Organization to Promote Issues and Concerns of Minority Law Enforcement Officers in Rhode Island
TweetRhode Island Guardians Association to provide advocacy for issues impacting service and professional standing of officers of color
Today, minority law enforcement officers from throughout Rhode Island announce the formation of the Rhode Island Guardians Association, an organization designed to address issues and concerns of officers of color serving in the law enforcement and criminal justice fields.
“Our organization has been formed to address issues of concern for Black/African American, Latino/Hispanic, Asian and Native American law enforcement personnel across the state, and seeks to enhance the relationships between police and the community,” said John P. A’Vant, President of the Rhode Island Guardians Association. He also stated, “Our goal is to provide advocacy for issues that impact the service and professional standing of minority law enforcement personnel, and to provide a more positive exposure to police officers in the community we serve.” The organization’s mission:• To provide community-based solutions to policing issues which have a direct impact on communities of color and the pivotal roles that Black/African American, Latino/Hispanic, Asian and Native American law enforcement personnel, and other criminal justice practitioners of color play.
• To provide various programs designed to empower youth, develop mechanisms that will facilitate the open exchange of information between and amongst minority law enforcement officers and their respective agencies. Develop and establish effective, meaningful communications between and with the minority communities of this State and the law enforcement community. Improve the quality of life in poor and low-income communities. Strengthen the bonds between community members and their law enforcement guardians.
• Our tools for success include opportunities to expose youth to the criminal justice field. Mentorship programs for youths or young adults of color in high school or a higher education institution interested in law enforcement or who desire to pursue a career in the field of criminal justice. Training for law enforcement and community members, member advocacy sessions, and various other endeavors.
A formal induction of officers will be held on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Cape Verdean Progressive Center, 329 Grosvenor Street, East Providence, RI. The Honorable O. Rogeree Thompson, Associate Justice of the First District Court, will be officiating. Lisa Ranglin, President of the Rhode Island Black Business Association & CEO Ranglin & Associates, will be the Mistress of Ceremonies.
Persons interested in joining as either Active, Associate or
Supporting members may do so by contacting John A’Vant at: information@riguardians.org.
