Sunday, January 8, 2023

National Law Enforcement Day 2023: "Respect, Honor, Courage"

A new year is upon us and once again, January 9th marks the annual observance of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day.


 
Created by Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), this date encourages all of us to show support for those who serve, protect, and go out into the world to make a difference each day. Their job has changed so much in recent years; the continual attacks on our cops, the constant blame and instant judgement which now runs rampant on social media, and the continual disrespect for anyone who attempts to hold law breakers accountable - it's a dark time in our society for these men and women. But with challenge comes hope; each of us can choose to be a light in that darkness; a breath of comfort or inspiration; a voice to remind those who stand fast against the evil of our world, that they ARE NOT ALONE.




What are some of the ways in which citizens can participate? Concerns of Police Survivors offers the following suggestions for observing January 9th:

• Change your profile picture on social media to an image provided on their website
• Wear blue clothing in support of law enforcement
• Send a card of support to your local police department or state agency
• Share a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media
• Ask children in your community to write letters in support of law enforcement
• Participate in Project Blue Light
• Organize an event or a rally in support of your law enforcement officers
• Advertise your support through local media outlets/billboards

Most importantly, if you see a police officer, thank a police officer!
Source: C.O.P.S.






We have just one request for you - only one small thing we're asking - but first, let's look at some of the other ways to celebrate our officers this week.




Our local newspaper the Coastal Point once again has an article explaining what this date is about.

"Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS) has for the last few years recognized those who serve and protect people in their communities. Jan. 9, 2023, is Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (LEAD), and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 16 in Bethany Beach is urging people to take time on Jan. 9 to support police officers." Source: Coastal Point Newspaper




See this excellent post by Proud Police Wife on Facebook, and a list of ways to show your support on Monday.

"Law enforcement appreciation day is coming up on Monday the 9th. And there are so so many ways to show support and thanks.
And you can still do that without spending a dime!
If you have the means to spend money, great, but not everyone does AND most importantly, police expect nothing. So if you do any on this list, they will be incredibly THANKFUL.
And, in my opinion, number 5 is the most important!
How do you plan to show support this Monday or any day through the year?
LIKE and SHARE this post so more people can hopefully see it and show support to law enforcement, too."

   

   

   


"I can't stress enough my appreciation for the dedicated men and women who serve this community day-in and day-out, putting their lives on the line to ensure the safety and security of our residents,” said North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown. source: Going Blue: Celebrate those who serve during Law Enforcement Appreciation Day


This prayer was written for LEAD 2021 from Notre Dame Sisters.




See more posts and ideas for ways to show gratitude on our Facebook page (we have numerous albums with suggestions, images, prayers and graphics honoring our local agencies. Click here to view all albums!




That one thing we're asking for this week mentioned earlier?
Okay, here it is; END THE SILENCE.
That's it.


Stop being quiet while good people are being attacked, murdered, disrespected and blamed at everything they do; criticized at every step they take, most often by people with zero comprehension of law enforcement and what it's actually like out there. The phrase "Monday Morning Quarterback" pales in comparison to how swiftly critics on the news and social networks act to condemn and place blame on our police, most often without knowledge of the entire situation and facts.....and you and I are the ones who can work to change this.

No, I'm not asking you to engage in meaningless battles on Facebook. I'm suggesting you speak up when you hear a conversation taking a wrong turn - express the possibility no one knows what really happened during a situation unless they were there - help us shut down the hate and judgement which our society has become so incredibly drawn into. Invite your neighbors to join in blue lights for LEO, gather your friends to chip in a few bucks each to send dinner over to a local department, start a card-making and letter-writing campaign for your community organization to launch and continue throughout the year. Print out the free notes and posters offered by many organizations (including us), and post one in your business, store window or office. Look for events held by nearby agencies and attend, take your kids, post pictures and thank the people you meet.

Just. Do. Something.

Something more than leaving emoji comments on social media when you see the announcement of yet another life taken. Stop waiting until you see the post of a devastated family or find yourself inconvenienced by the traffic lined up for yet another funeral procession.


Let's end the silence. Our police, deputies, sheriffs, troopers, border patrol, ICE, undercover, probation and parole officers deserve so much more. Let's be the change, and in each of our own small ways, help them continue to stay strong.



Thank you to the law enforcement professionals who work tirelessly to keep us safe!






Previous posts for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day:

LEAD 2022
LEAD 2021
LEAD 2020
LEAD 2019
LEAD 2015



Facebook albums:



Established in support of law enforcement located on the fourteen counties of Delmarva (DE & the eastern shore areas of MD & VA); advocating respect for all who serve and protect. #delmarvablue