Mission
The mission of the Afro American Police Officers League is to exhaust all legal means in an effort to resolve and secure equality within the community and workplace in which we exist. We hereby dedicate ourselves to influence educational achievement by all citizens, as well as the membership we serve. We shall promote social fellowship and adherence to law and order within our membership, the police department, and our community, while advocating cooperation with our judicial system and each branch of local, state, and federal government.
AAPOL is the key organization mandating the selection of women and minorities to the Houston Police Academy. AAPOL victories today result in diversity throughout the Houston Police Department, opening doors to women, Blacks, Asians, and Hispanics from the patrol function to the Command staff.
We continuously work to enhance police and community relations. AAPOL believes in the philosophy of “Community Policing,” that calls for a true, cooperative partnership between the Community and the Police for a safer environment.
Alvin V. Young, AAPOL Founder
History
AAPOL was founded in 1975 under the leadership and guidance of Houston Police Officer Alvin V. Young (dec.). Officer Young worked tirelessly as a liaison between the department and the community it serves and today AAPOL remains active in police and community affairs. AAPOL prides itself on it’s diversity of membership, serving not only those from the African-American community, but members from all backgrounds and races, including White, Hispanic, Asian-American, and others.
AAPOL strongly believes in the concept of “community policing,” a concept which calls for a cooperative partnership between the community and police officers. This partnership encourages open communication in order to ensure a safer environment for all concerned.
AAPOL also actively encourages the recruitment and selection of women and minorities to the Houston Police Academy. Past AAPOL victories have resulted in a more racially diverse police department from the patrol ranks to the command staff. The city of Houston is one of the most racially and culturally diverse cities in the America and AAPOL works to ensure everyone in the community has an opportunity to serve as a member of the Houston Police Department, either as an officer or as a member of the civilian support staff.
The dynamics of policing have changed dramatically over the years, and changes in attitudes and expectations have prompted AAPOL to evolve in order to meet these changes and new demands. AAPOL continues to remain focused on addressing the needs of our community through positive police-community relations. Through its various fundraising activities AAPOL is actively involved in supporting local and national charities, including educational scholarship opportunities and financial support for members in time of need.
AAPOL Documentary
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1. Educate Yourself: Learn about the history, mission, and values of the AAPOL. Understand their goals, achievements, and challenges. This will help you align yourself with their legacy and purpose.
2. Volunteer and Engage: Participate in AAPOL events, activities, and initiatives. This could involve volunteering your time, skills, or resources for community outreach programs, mentorship, or educational initiatives. Engaging with AAPOL's work will help you contribute to their legacy in a meaningful way.
3. Be a Role Model: As a member of the AAPOL, strive to be a positive role model within your community and the law enforcement profession. Uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and community service. Your actions can inspire others and contribute to building the AAPOL legacy.
4. Advocate for Change: Use your voice and platform to advocate for positive change within the law enforcement system. Address issues of racial injustice, discrimination, and inequality. Collaborate with AAPOL members to develop strategies, policies, and initiatives that promote fairness, equity, and community-oriented policing.
5. Support AAPOL's Initiatives: Contribute financially, if possible, to AAPOL's initiatives and programs. This support enables them to continue their work in empowering police officers and addressing issues affecting the black and brown communities. Your contribution will play a part in preserving and expanding the AAPOL legacy.
Remember, being a part of the AAPOL legacy is not only about individual actions but also about collective efforts to effect positive change. Collaborate with fellow AAPOL members, community organizations, and stakeholders to strengthen the legacy and create a lasting impact.
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1. Research AAPOL: Visit the official AAPOL website or contact their local chapter to gather information about the organization. Learn about their mission, membership requirements, and benefits of joining.
2. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by AAPOL for membership. Typically, AAPOL membership is open to police officers, both active and retired. AAPOL allows civilian membership or associate membership for non-law enforcement individuals who support AAPOL's mission.
3. Complete the Application: Obtain an AAPOL membership application form either through their website or by contacting a board member. Fill out the application form accurately and provide all the required information.
4. Submit the Application: Submit your completed application form along with any necessary supporting documents, such as proof of employment as a police officer or proof of retirement if applicable. Follow the specified submission instructions provided by AAPOL.
5. Pay Membership Dues: AAPOL may require payment of annual membership dues. Check their website or contact the local chapter to determine the amount and method of payment. Ensure that your membership dues are paid promptly to activate your membership.
6. Attend Orientation or Induction: Once your application is accepted and your membership dues are paid, you may be invited to attend an orientation or induction session. This is an opportunity to learn more about AAPOL's activities, network with other members, and get acquainted with the organization's structure and expectations.
7. Engage and Participate: After becoming a member, actively engage with AAPOL's activities, events, and initiatives. Attend meetings, participate in community outreach programs, and contribute your skills and expertise to further the organization's objectives.
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1. Join AAPOL: If you are an African American police officer, consider becoming a member of AAPOL. By joining, you actively support their mission and contribute to their collective voice.
2. Spread Awareness: Help raise awareness about AAPOL's work and initiatives within your community. Share information about their events, programs, and achievements through social media, word of mouth, or local community organizations. This will help increase visibility and support for AAPOL.
3. Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support AAPOL's activities and events. This could involve assisting with community outreach programs, mentorship initiatives, fundraising events, or administrative tasks. Your volunteer efforts will contribute to the success of AAPOL's mission.
4. Donate: Consider making a financial contribution to AAPOL. Your donation will support their programs, scholarships, and community initiatives. Visit their website or contact their local chapter to find out how you can make a donation.
5. Collaborate: Partner with AAPOL in developing and implementing initiatives that address issues of racial injustice, discrimination, and inequality. By working together, you can amplify the impact of your collective efforts.
6. Advocate: Use your voice and platform to advocate for AAPOL's goals and objectives. Attend local community meetings, engage with policymakers, and speak up about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within law enforcement agencies.
7. Stay Informed: Stay updated on AAPOL's activities, initiatives, and events. Attend their meetings, workshops, or conferences to stay informed about the issues they are addressing and the opportunities for involvement.