FBI Honors the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute with 2017 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award

BIRMINGHAM, AL—Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Johnnie Sharp, Jr, announced that the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) is the Birmingham Division recipient of the 2017 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA). SAC Sharp presented a certificate to Andrea L. Taylor, president and CEO of BCRI, at a press conference at the FBI’s Birmingham headquarters.

On April 20, 2018, Ms. Taylor will represent BCRI at a presentation in Washington, DC, where FBI Director Christopher A. Wray will present the formal award to her and other recipients from across the country.

Since 1990, the FBI has recognized individuals and organizations whose achievements in the terrorism, crime, drug, gang, or violence prevention/education field had an exemplary impact on the community. Each year, the SAC of each FBI field office selects an individual or organization that has made a major contribution in these areas.

The mission of BCRI is to enlighten each generation about civil and human rights by exploring our common past and working together in the present to build a better future. BCRI is committed to preserving and telling the Birmingham story, creating programs that encourage cultural awareness, and championing civil and human rights by facilitating an atmosphere of dialogue and understanding.

For more than a decade, BCRI has partnered with the Birmingham FBI office for a conference on civil rights and law enforcement. The focus of the conference is to help “bridge the gap” between law enforcement and communities they serve.

BCRI also serves as a cultural and educational research center that promotes a comprehensive understanding for the significance of civil rights developments in Birmingham.

“BCRI truly embodies the meaning of this award,” Sharp said. “It’s a privilege to be able to recognize BCRI for their partnership, their work in championing civil rights, and for working side by side with the FBI to connect law enforcement and the community.”

“We are honored to receive this award from the FBI,” stated Taylor, “Strong relationships with local and federal law enforcement are crucial to our community and we are grateful for the FBI’s partnership in this endeavor.”

A part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, BCRI celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2017.