The Florida Civil Rights Association is applauding Deputy Chief Val Demings becoming the first Black Female Police Chief of a major metropolitan police department in the State of Florida.
In a recent press release the civil rights group stated that the appointment of the Deputy Chief to Chief of Police shows inclusion at the City of Orlando. Willie David, President of the Florida Civil Rights Association also said that “it shows that we are a diverse community and that possibilities of obtaining the highest position in the profession are open to everyone”.
Chief Demings has a Drum Major Instinct for public safety and justice. She can bring a different perspective to community policing by addressing issues sensitive to the minority community, David said.
The Florida Civil Rights Association hopes to put the new Chief (Val Demings) skills to task at its 3rd Annual Town Hall Meeting & Awards Ceremony where 13 Orange County Police Chiefs will take center stage for questions and answers on violent crimes from a diverse audience of over 500 attendees (Wednesday, December 12, 2007). Jerry Demings, Director, Orange County Public Safety will be the guest speaker.
In other comments, David added, “The Florida Civil Rights Association looks forward to building bridges for a better relationship between the Orlando Police Department and the community they serve”.
