ABOUT US
The Newark Bronze Shields is the African-American police officers association within the Newark Police Department. The organization was founded in 1959 by a group of African-American Police Officers who were battling racial discrimination within the Newark Police Department. One of the founding members, Floyd Bostic, is still a member and serves as our guiding light for today's organization. We are a non-profit organization committed to serving the citizens of Newark, New Jersey as well as the African-American community abroad. We are focused on improving the quality of life within the community by engaging in youth programs, fundraisers to benefit the less fortunate, and providing scholarships for college-bound students. We are also charged with the responsibility of the recruitment and retention of African-American Police Officers in the City of Newark and abroad.
Floyd Bostic Jr. Is the First President in the history of the Newark Bronze Shields Inc., a civil rights organization for black police officers in Newark. When Floyd Bostic joined the Newark Police Department in 1956, it was a tough place for African-Americans. Patrol cars were off limits to the about three dozen black officers on the force. Many were relegated to night shift as foot patrolmen. And none were promoted beyond the rank of patrolman, In 1959, Bostic and six others banded together to form the Bronze Shields, to fight for equal rights. Fifty years later, change is obvious.
Over the years, the organization has worked with the department's management, politicians and the courts to push for change. The Bronze Shields' mission has grown include raising money for charity, distributing food, and helping fellow officers. They also mentor young people as part of their Seekers of Knowledge program. "It's very important," that the Bronze Shields' work in the community. "It's their way of giving back: helping people regardless of color or gender."