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Positive Treatment Of African Americans

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On May 18, 1935, the New York Age reported that “Negro Cops Get Highest Award.” Each year, the New York City Police Department awards the Medal of Honor award to police officers that demonstrate courageous acts. Out of all the police officers in the city, reports stated, “Of the twenty four medals awarded, of which four were given posthumously—two of the medals went to Negro policemen—Detective John E. Roberts and Patrolman Charles A. Barts.” During the award ceremony, Lewis J. Valentine, the Police Commissioner, recognized the officers’ noteworthy acts. Roberts received reports that three men tried to rob another man with the intent of causing bodily harm. On the scene, the perpetrators fired at Roberts, who was shot three times. Roberts killed one offender and policemen detained the other two while they tried to flee. Bart reported to the scene of a murder. At the crime scene, the murderer attempted shoot Bart, but the officer killed him. …show more content…

Although the negative treatment of African Americans outweighs the positive treatment, neither should go unrecognized. It was a shock to learn that there were African American police officers during this period. This newspaper article is captivating because it demonstrates a positive part of history that most may not know existed in this era. Ultimately, this article relates the class discussion about the silences found in history because it reveals a silence of African American

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