This post is part of our ongoing, #WhyIWearTheBadge Wednesday blog series. Today, IACP Executive Director and CEO Vincent Talucci shares his thoughts on the campaign. 

The #WhyIWearTheBadge campaign was launched as a way for agencies all over the world to share their stories with the communities they serve. The campaign was meant to highlight the diversity and commitment of the law enforcement profession. Over the last few months, a quick search on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook, will uncover all of these things: agencies sharing their genuine reasons for wearing the badge; images showcasing the commitment of officers; and videos revealing the diversity of agencies, officers, and communities.

While the campaign has been interesting and fun for many, it has proven to be much more than the just social media posts. The campaign has also opened up lines of communication and increased engagement within communities. The posts that have been shared have showed people who officers really are, why they joined this noble profession, and what motivates them each day. These posts explain what officers’ jobs really look like and the kinds of situations they are faced with each day. It has provided community members who are not law enforcement professionals with insight and given them an opportunity to engage with officers by asking questions or even thanking them for their service. These conversations are invaluable.

We look forward to continuing to see #WhyIWearTheBadge posts emerge from around the world and thank you for sharing your stories.