Calling All Community Leaders!

Dear Community Leader,

I hope this letter finds you well. We are The Silent Task Force and we’re writing to you today to share an important initiative that could greatly impact our community: the establishment of an Ebony Alert system.

The Ebony Alert aims to enhance the existing alert systems for missing persons in Washington State, specifically focusing on Black individuals who are often underrepresented in current notifications. Statistics show that while Black people are only 13% of the U.S. Population, we are more than 40% of the cases of missing persons with an average of less than 1/5 of those cases receiving media coverage. Black children are 35% of kids who disappeared but only 7% of missing Black children are represented in the media. Statistics also show that minorities have experienced racial bias when it comes to the engagement in law enforcement. We are often considered runaways or involved with criminal activity, but we are victims experiencing domestic violence and sex trafficking.

These statistics are alarming, and they highlight the urgent need for greater visibility and action. Each of these cases is not just a number; they are lives deeply affected, families in distress, and communities yearning for justice.

By establishing the Ebony Alert, we can strive to implement a system in which every missing person case receives the attention it deserves. This  people powered initiative will empower our community, law enforcement, and the media to act swiftly and effectively in locating missing Black individuals.

I invite you to join us in this vital initiative. Your voice and support can help bring awareness and change. Here’s how you can help:

1. Sign our petition to show your support for the Ebony Alert initiative Ebony Alert Petition.

2. Attend our upcoming community meeting- November 14th 5pm-8pm at The Silent Task Force house where we will discuss the steps we can take together. The invitation is attached and you can RSVP here Ebony Alert Community Meeting RSVP .

3. Share this message with your community partners, friends and family to spread awareness.

Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected, improve safety in the community, and ensure that every missing Black person is given the attention they deserve.Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and for your support. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us at Admin@Ebonyalertwashington.com .