By Dr. Chuck Russo, program director of criminal justice at American Military University
In the news lately, all we seem to hear about is “black-this” and “white-that”— people identifying by color when discussing an issue. Here are the colors I identify with: I am blue. I am green. I am tan. I identify with every color uniform worn by my brothers and sisters in law enforcement across America.
It pains me to see individuals in some of the highest political offices in the country use their position to undermine the hard work done day-in and day-out by our nation’s police officers.
I am concerned that the law enforcement community is not given the voice they need to defend their profession. We have seen multiple cases of officers facing punishment for using social media to express feelings that are merely commentary on unfolding events. Even when officers do so off-duty and not as a representative of an agency, if “someone” feels those comments are in bad taste or represents “the agency” in a bad light, officers can often face reprimand.
Conversely, those in the highest political offices can express such feelings while clearly speaking in an official capacity and are often applauded. Something is not right today.
The Contradiction of Community Policing Training
I recall from my years of community policing training that we were encouraged to:
- Reach out to the community
- Show them that we are one of them
- Let them know there is a person inside that uniform
- Show them that you are much more than just a uniform
Unfortunately, becoming part of the community has its negative side when some in the community do not see things the same way as the officers.
How can we improve the evolution of community policing in these days of social networking? How can we encourage officers to engage and be part of the community, without making them vulnerable to ongoing public criticism?
Choosing Colors
The coloring of America has heightened the challenges that law enforcement officers face. At some times we are condemned for being too robotic and regimented, and at others we are condemned for being too human. Now we are being condemned for the color we identify with.
If you identify as blue, green, tan or any other color of the uniform, be aware that what you post, like, or comment on in the social media environment can have consequences. While social media can help law enforcement connect with the community, this connection can come at a cost if you are not careful.
The coloring of America that has accompanied current events has focused its spotlight on the professional and personal activities of those who identify as blue, green and tan. Unfortunately, the solution is often to keep your friends close and your opinions even closer.
About the Author: Dr. Chuck Russo has been involved with American Military University since 2001. He began his career in law enforcement in 1987 in central Florida and was involved all areas of patrol, training, special operations and investigations. Dr. Russo continues to design and instruct courses, as well as act as a consultant for education, government and industry throughout the United States and the Middle East. Dr. Russo earned his Master of Arts degree in education in 1995 and Master of Science degree in criminal justice in 1996 from the University of Central Florida. He earned his doctoral degree in public affairs at the University of Central Florida in 2006. His research focuses on emerging technology and law enforcement applications.
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