By Josh James
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-978123.mp3
Lexington, KY – Lexington plays host to the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, or NOBLE, this week.
The annual conference, now in its 35th year, brings together top federal and local law enforcement officials, as well as youth and families. Retired Lexington Assistant Police Chief James Jackson served as a NOBLE co-chair this year. He says the climate for African-Americans in uniform has clearly improved over the years, but more work is needed.
"A lot of times certain opportunities in the past weren't available for minorities, but things are much, much better today, and so we're just trying to organize," he said.
NOBLE also offers mentoring programs, which prepare youth to step into leadership roles. It represents over 3000 members nationwide.