The El Paso FBI Black Leaders Roundtable, established in March 2022, is a crucial platform for discussions on matters impacting the Black community and law enforcement to enhance their relationship. This initiative emerged from the collaborative efforts of Monica Tucker, the founder of The El Paso Black Roundtable, and FBI Special Agent Jeanette Harper.
The genesis of this collaboration traces back to 2019 when SA Harper engaged local Black media to feature the celebration of 100 Years of Black FBI Agents. During Black History Month in 2020, Black El Paso Voice showcased this feature.
In September 2021, a remarkable initiative called “First Fridays with the FBI” was launched by dedicated civilians in the El Paso community. This innovative program raises awareness about crimes and their prevention, inviting residents to promote safety and security within their neighborhoods actively. “First Fridays with the FBI” quickly gained momentum, drawing in community members from all walks of life, eager to collaborate with law enforcement agencies. This grassroots movement became integral to the ongoing efforts to strengthen the bridge between law enforcement and the public. Through engaging events and informative and open dialogues, this initiative empowered citizens with knowledge about crime prevention strategies, encouraging them to safeguard their communities actively.
Recognizing the immense value of this citizen-led initiative, the El Paso FBI Black Leaders Roundtable embraced the “First Fridays with the FBI” program as an essential component of their collaborative efforts. The Roundtable provided a supportive platform for the initiative, amplifying its impact and outreach. The partnership between the Roundtable and “First Fridays with the FBI” exemplifies the community’s dedication to fostering a safer environment through education, awareness, and proactive involvement. Together, these endeavors have contributed significantly to building a resilient community where law enforcement and citizens work hand in hand to prevent crimes, enhance security, and create a better future for all.
Building upon this success, SAC Downey, the former El Paso Field Office SAIC, recognized the need to expand these efforts and subsequently established similar demographic Roundtables inspired by the Black Leaders Roundtable.
Central to the Roundtable’s success is the appointment of Curtis Smith as the lead liaison between FBI El Paso and The Black Roundtable. This strategic role ensures effective communication and collaboration between the law enforcement agency and the Black community. The Roundtable is a vital platform where Black community leaders and law enforcement officials collaborate, fostering trust, dispelling misconceptions, and nurturing transparent relationships.
Additionally, the Roundtable serves as a forum for addressing shared concerns and devising strategies to tackle them collaboratively. Looking ahead, the Black Leaders Roundtable is committed to broadening its reach by connecting with other multicultural organizations and convening annually. Monica Tucker and SA Harper have established an impactful program that has significantly strengthened the ties between the Black community and law enforcement in El Paso.
Don’t hesitate to contact Monica Tucker or Curtis Smith for those interested in participating in the Black Roundtable. Your involvement is crucial to our shared mission of promoting understanding, trust, and collaboration between the Black community and law enforcement in El Paso.