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Police officers and professional staff from the Wilmington Police Department traveled to Washington, D.C., yesterday to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Chief Wilfredo Campos organized the special training and awareness opportunity during Black History Month for sworn and civilian WPD staff.
 
“The majority of the residents we serve each day are African American, and it is important that we – as police officers and civilian staff – understand as much as possible about the history of the African American community,” said Chief Campos. “While our police officers receive training in topics such as cultural diversity, law enforcement legitimacy and procedural justice through our Police Academy, this additional training opportunity provided members of our WPD team with the chance to take in the powerful exhibits that this Smithsonian museum has to offer.”
 
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the Museum has collected more than 40,000 artifacts and nearly 100,000 individuals have become members. The Museum opened to the public on September 24, 2016, as the 19th museum of the Smithsonian Institution.
 
The group’s visit was organized with the assistance of the office of Senator Chris Coons. “We appreciate the support of Senator Coons and his staff, for helping us obtain tickets for our visit to this museum so we could have this important experience,” said Chief Campos.
 
“As co-chair of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, I’m proud to help bring members of the Wilmington Police Department to Washington for a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture,” said Senator Coons. “The most effective law enforcement officer in any community will be the one who lives within the community and sees not just what makes up the fabric of what is there today, but how that fabric has been woven throughout history. In today’s climate, it is essential that officers of the law—especially those operating within Wilmington’s predominantly Black neighborhoods—are exposed to the very important story of Black men and women throughout American history.”
 
The trip included several members of Mayor Mike Purzycki’s administration, as well as members of the Interdenominational Ministers Action Council (IMAC).
 
“Chief Campos’ career is built on good policing techniques coupled with strong community engagement,” said Mayor Purzycki. “So, the fact that he wants the officers of his department to know more about the people they serve and protect is not surprising. I commend the Chief for arranging the visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture for which I can attest is an inspiring opportunity to view that the museum says is a People’s Journey and a Nation’s Story.”