WHEREAS, Major Benjamin F. Brooks, a native of Elizabethtown, North Carolina, has lived a life defined by dedication to public service and the advancement of fairness in American institutions; and
WHEREAS, In 1961, Brooks enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police, becoming one of the first African Americans in the history of the agency and helping to open doors of opportunity within law enforcement at a time when such representation was rare; and
WHEREAS, Through determination and exemplary service, Brooks rose through the ranks to become the first African American captain and troop commander in the history of the Pennsylvania State Police, breaking barriers and establishing a path for future generations of minority officers; and
WHEREAS, In 1987, Brooks again made history when he became the first enlisted member of the Pennsylvania State Police to lead the Affirmative Action and Contract Compliance Division, where he worked to strengthen equity within the agency and across government; and
WHEREAS, During his leadership of that division, Brooks developed the Pennsylvania State Police’s Sexual Harassment Policy and Training Program and worked with a multi-agency task force that trained police and correctional departments throughout the Commonwealth on the enforcement of ethnic intimidation laws related to hate crimes; and
WHEREAS, Brooks earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania in 1979 and furthered his professional development through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Management Training Program for Senior Managers, the FBI National Academy, Pennsylvania State University Police Supervisor In-Service Training, and the Police Executive Development Program; and
WHEREAS, After his distinguished career in law enforcement, Brooks continued his work through education and consultation as the founder of Major Ben’s Consulting Agency, where he assisted organizations in understanding workplace diversity and developing policies that support respectful professional environments; and
WHEREAS, Brooks shared his expertise with national and international audiences as a speaker and trainer and has been affiliated with organizations including the National Speakers Association and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, while also appearing on WHAG-TV’s program “About the Law” to discuss issues related to law enforcement and workplace conduct; and
WHEREAS, Major Brooks has been recognized for the historic role he played in expanding opportunity within law enforcement, and today, at 86 years of age, he is recognized as the oldest Black Pennsylvania State Trooper in the nation; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes Major Benjamin F. Brooks for his historic career and lasting contributions to law enforcement and workplace equity.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Major Benjamin F. Brooks as evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.
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