Black individuals, particularly youth and young adults, go missing at disproportionate rates in Colorado and across the United States. Unfortunately, their cases often receive less media attention and fewer resources compared to missing persons from other racial and ethnic backgrounds. This can lead to delays in initiating critical search and rescue efforts, which reduces the likelihood of bringing these individuals home safely.

 

The “Ebony Alert” initiative would establish a statewide alert system specifically for missing Black persons, similar to the Amber Alert or Silver Alert systems currently used for missing children and vulnerable elderly adults, respectively. By issuing a targeted, immediate alert when a Black youth or adult goes missing, Ebony Alerts would mobilize communities and law enforcement, raising public awareness and increasing resources dedicated to finding these individuals quickly and effectively.

This resource was added to the California Government Code by adding Section 8594.14. It was introduced through a Senate bill.

Without implementing Ebony Alerts, the window for finding missing Black individuals will remain small, as these cases frequently lack the critical, early visibility that aids in locating individuals quickly and safely. This change could prevent further loss, heal community trust, and reduce the trauma and heartbreak felt by families in these situations. Other states have begun proposing this alert as well. 

We, the undersigned, respectfully urge Colorado legislators and law enforcement agencies to take action to implement the following:

 

 1. Establish an Ebony Alert Protocol: Develop a protocol that includes specific criteria for issuing an Ebony Alert, including but not limited to age, circumstances of the disappearance, and known vulnerabilities of the individual.

 

 2. Community and Media Collaboration: Work with community leaders, local and national media outlets, and social media platforms to ensure wide distribution of Ebony Alerts, increasing public engagement and awareness of missing Black individuals.

 

 3. Resources and Training: Allocate adequate resources and provide training for law enforcement officers on the unique challenges faced in missing Black persons’ cases, enhancing the effectiveness of Ebony Alert response efforts.

 

 4. Data Collection and Transparency: Mandate the tracking and reporting of Ebony Alert activations and outcomes to assess their impact and continuously improve the system, ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of these alerts.

 

 5. Community Support Networks: Establish partnerships with local organizations that serve Black communities to offer support to families and loved ones of missing persons, connecting them with resources and advocacy.

 

Why This Matters:

The urgency for action has never been greater. In a society increasingly aware of racial disparities, this initiative aligns with a growing movement toward fair representation and responsive support for vulnerable populations. Immediate action will send a powerful message that Colorado values the safety and well-being of every resident. By putting focused resources and public attention toward missing Black youth and adults, we can better protect vulnerable members of our community and save lives.