National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (L.E.A.D.) is an annual observance dedicated to showing gratitude and support for law enforcement officers who protect and serve communities across the nation. This day recognizes the dedication, sacrifices, and challenges faced by police officers in their daily duties.
Quick Facts
When is it: January 9th annually
Tagged as: L.E.A.D.
What’s the hashtag: #NationalLawEnforcementAppreciationDay
When was it founded: 2015
Who founded it: Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) along with multiple law enforcement organizations
History of L.E.A.D.
The day was established in 2015 following the Ferguson, Missouri officer-involved shooting of 2014. It emerged during a period of increased scrutiny of police actions and aims to recognize the challenging nature of law enforcement work while promoting positive relationships between officers and communities.
Timeline
- 1636: Boston establishes first night watch in colonial America
- 1970: Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) established
- 2015: First National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day observed
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 9 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | January 9 | Thursday |
| 2026 | January 9 | Friday |
How It’s Observed
Communities across the nation participate by wearing blue, displaying blue lights, sending thank-you cards to local departments, and sharing positive stories about law enforcement on social media.
Fun Facts About L.E.A.D.
- The U.S. has approximately 18,000 independent law enforcement agencies
- Women comprise 12% of the U.S. police force
- There are around 900,000 police officers serving in the United States
- U.S. officers must have probable cause for arrests, unlike many European counterparts
Quiz
- Q: What color represents support for law enforcement?
- Q: How many law enforcement officers serve in the US?
- Q: What year was L.E.A.D. established?
-(Answers: Blue, 900,000, 2015)
FAQs
- Q: Why was L.E.A.D. created?
A: To show appreciation for officers’ service and improve police-community relations - Q: How can I participate?
A: Wear blue, send thank-you cards, or display blue lights
Related
- National Police Week (Second Week of May)
- National Thank a Police Officer Day (Fourth Saturday in September)
- International Day of Non-Violence (October 2)