HBAPA Black History Month 2024 event brings officers and staff together

Honouring the past, respecting the present and embracing the future, were the themes of this year’s annual conference hosted by Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Black and Asian Police Association (HBAPA) at Robertson House in Stevenage.

A packed room of officers, staff and invited guests heard thought-provoking and often emotional presentations, as speakers shared their personal life stories and journeys into policing, and the challenges they faced.

Reflecting the themes, the speakers, who included former Herts Chief Inspector, Alicia Shaw, current Herts Detective Sergeant Deji Afolabi, and Sergeant Andrew ‘Tommo’ Thomas, spoke about their lived experiences as Black police officers in Hertfordshire. They discussed the barriers and challenges they faced and overcame in their lives, as well as the support they have received and were able to offer others.

Also taking part were National Black Police Association president Andy George, Herts Chief Constable Charlie Hall and Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards.

Members of the Constabulary’s Race Inclusion Board were also in attendance, along with the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster who presented awards to HBAPA members in recognition for their work with the association.

HBAPA Chair, Detective Chief Inspector Tony Fontenelle said: “This annual conference has grown into an event that brings people together, to network and connect, as well as an opportunity to listen to and acknowledge personal stories, that are at times difficult to hear, but are also inspiring, educational and give us hope for continued positive change. Understanding the past helps us collectively shape our future.

“I would like to thank everyone who spoke and shared their life stories. The message for me from the day was about the power of collective support. So many times we heard about people overcoming their challenges not only through personal resilience but by also reaching out for support from others who have been in the same situation. The level of support which is now available to officers and staff from minority ethnic backgrounds through HBAPA and elsewhere is better than ever.”

Superintendent Di Whiteside who is the force lead for race, added: “We are on a continuing journey as we strive to address racial disproportionality in our ranks and continue to improve the level of trust in policing within our Black and Asian communities. But days like today also show how far we have come and how hard we are striving to be the best we can be when it comes to equality and diversity.

“I am hugely indebted to those who spoke and their stories continue to move me. It was also great to see so many people catching up or making new acquaintances and the energy in the room was incredibly positive.”