5/8/21 National Police Week? Who Knew?

It is singularly ironic that a week celebrating the police should fall so soon after Derek Chauvin's conviction, and just two days after Chauvin's four colleagues were indicted for their parts in George Floyd's murder. Still, only a mean-spirited person would scowl about a holiday that fetes and feeds families who have lost a family member in public service. About 140 to 160 officers die at work each year.

Since 1962, when John F. Kennedy signed it into law, every May 15 is Police Memorial Day. A National Peace Officer's Memorial Service takes place in Washington, DC at the United States Capitol. National Police Week has other events on other days, but the memorial service is at its heart.

This year, police week starts on Mother's Day. On the 13th, there's a candlelight vigil; on the 14th, a "blue honor gala" which includes dinner and involves formal dress; and Friday and Sunday there's a "Survivor's Conference," which offers, advice, counseling, and a group howl 'n' hug for the adult families of fallen officers. Both of the conference days offer children's activities at local police academies.

If you want to know more, check out https://www.concernsofpolicesurvivors.org/?fbclid=IwAR2K4FW409mELFP4jWDnAPFVf7eZXCIB5SmxjZdZgeFuJObwVOvckFiDofM Update: Events of this year's Police Week have been postponed until October due to COVID19.