PRESIDENT’S REPORT

When I’m driving to work in the morning, on the radio I often hear about “celebrations” that didn’t exist when I was a little girl. Some are more important than others, I would argue. National Aardvark Week probably doesn’t make my list, for example. The third full week of March is American Chocolate Week which has some merit, much like October 29 which is Respect Your Cat Day. Certainly, we all should have done a better job with February’s National Hoodie-Hoo Day this year (look it up), but much of this has gotten to the point of just being ridiculous. As I write this, for example it is international Mermaid Day. Probably not worth sending a card, unless, of course, you live near Lake Thompson where I understand there have been several sightings.

There are things that do matter though, and are worth slowing down to celebrate and reflecting on. For us in City Government especially it is important to acknowledge that May 7-14 is National Police Week. National Police Week is a collaborative effort dedicated to honoring America’s law enforcement community. Special recognition occurs on May 15 which was established by President Kennedy in 1962 as National Peace Officers Day, paying special recognition to law enforcement officer who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The women and men working in law enforcement in our cities deserve our respect and recognition. Even a routine call can put them in a life-threatening situation. They are asked to be their best, 100% of the time, when they are often interacting with people who are having one of their worst days. It is a mentally and emotionally exhausting profession. While I’m proud that the public does regularly offer support and praise to local law enforcement, I also know that can be drowned out by a chorus of unfair criticism or generalizations. When someone serves in law enforcement their whole family sacrifices, with the officer missing out on family time and holidays so that we can enjoy our communities safely.

I ask that you consider just hitting the pause button in your community and take time to acknowledge your law enforcement professionals. In Yankton, we honor our team with a proclamation read by the mayor and provide special treats to each squad. Our Human Resources and Employee Engagement department gave all of our officers Doritos last year for “Nacho Average Officer” during police week. Consider asking your schools to help recognize law enforcement with special projects and programs. Maybe your local Chamber of Commerce could ask that the business community get involved. These sorts of events also mean that more members of your community get a chance to have positive interactions with law enforcement and more law enforcement professionals get a chance to get to know a fuller cross section of your community. That’s the core of community-oriented policing and an important step to build bridges and strengthening relationships.

I am humbled by the integrity, empathy, and kindness South Dakota’s law enforcement officers show in their work. I know you feel the same way about the women and men who are keeping your families and property safe. Help me make sure they know they valued and appreciated. ■