alert system

Black Coalition Fighting Back Serial Murders members Suzette Shaw, left, holding photos of 10 victims, and Margaret Prescod, at podium, join relatives of victims speaking after the sentencing for Lonnie Franklin Jr., a convicted serial killer known as the "Grim Sleeper," in Los Angeles Superior Court in August 2016.

Politics & Government
National

California creates nation's first 'Ebony Alert' to find missing Black children

7:01pm October 11, 2023

by Jonathan Franklin

The alert system will use electronic highway signs and encourage the use of TV, radio, social media and other platforms to spread information about the missing person.

A freeway sign over Interstate 5 in Los Angeles flashes a message about a child abduction as part of the statewide Amber Alert program in August 2002. California state Sen. Steven Bradford has proposed a bill to create a special "Ebony Alert" system for missing Black women, girls and youth in the state.

National

A California bill would create an alert system for missing Black women and youth

5:01am April 08, 2023

by Jonathan Franklin

A proposed "Ebony Alert" system, similar to an Amber or Silver alert, would inform people of missing Black children and young women. The plan aims to bring attention to these often overlooked groups.

A new Maryland alert system named in honor of the late Emmett Till will aim to bring awareness to hate crimes across the state. Here, a mural featuring a portrait of civil rights icon Emmett Till is seen in Chicago.

National

A new system to flag racist incidents and acts of hate is named after Emmett Till

3:49pm August 23, 2022

by Jonathan Franklin

The Emmett Till Alerts will be sent to Black elected officials across Maryland — along with national civil rights organizations, clergy members and other leaders.