Each February and on Juneteenth, officers with the Alexandria Police Department wear a specialty badge that represents more than a symbol—it reflects history, identity, and a shared commitment to progress. 

The APD Juneteenth and Black History Month badge was created by Officer Vincent Williams and Officer Erik Elam, and their squad of officers as part of the department’s specialty badge program. Their goal was intentional: to honor Black history, acknowledge the struggles, achievements, and sacrifices of Black Americans, and create opportunities for meaningful conversation within the department and the community it serves. 

“This Juneteenth badge is an expression of my diversity and I love it,” said Officer Williams. “It’s a collective—of everyone, representing all types of people from different walks of life.” 

For Williams, who just celebrated his eighth anniversary with APD and is a patrol officer, the badge represents both personal pride and professional responsibility. “I’m proud of my Black heritage and my department,” he said. “These specialty badges allow officers to express themselves.” 

Alexandria’s policing history is deeply intertwined with the city’s broader story. In 1965, APD hired its first African American officer—an important milestone during a period of profound social change. In 2009, the department reached another historic moment with the appointment of its first African American Chief of Police. These milestones reflect progress that continues today through ongoing efforts to build trust, representation, and shared ownership of public safety. 

Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on the experiences, contributions, and resilience of Black Americans whose history has shaped Alexandria and the nation. Wearing the badge during February acknowledges both the progress made and the work that continues—serving as a visible reminder that understanding history is essential to building trust, strengthening relationships, and advancing equity in the way we serve our community today. 

Officer Elam, who has served the Alexandria community for more than 10 years and is in APD’s Youth Resource Unit, emphasized the importance of heritage and shared understanding. 

“Heritage is everything—my family is a mix of African American, Native American, Caucasian, and Hispanic,” Elam said. “We’re a diverse group, and that’s what makes us, us. Your heritage is your legacy, and we move forward when we talk about our history.” 

For Elam, wearing the badge is both personal and collective. “At APD, we have a diverse group of people, working as one. I wear this badge during Juneteenth and Black History Month with a sense of pride, paying homage to my family roots.” 

The Juneteenth and Black History Month badge is not only about honoring the past—it is about recognizing how history shapes the present and informs the future. By wearing it, officers acknowledge the importance of reflection, dialogue, and unity as the department continues to serve Alexandria with professionalism, respect, and integrity. 

During Black History Month, APD reflects on its history, honors the contributions of Black officers and community members, and reaffirms its commitment to working together in service of all that is good and just.