Howard Saffold (Finding Aid)

Howard Saffold

1941 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: Soup

Favorite Time of Year: Late spring, early summer

Interview Length: 183 minutes

Interview Date(s): June 5, 2002

Interview Location(s): Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Howard Saffold discusses his family background and describes his family members. He also recalls his childhood and youth in Chicago, Illinois. Howard Saffold recounts his high school years, including his involvement in gang activity. He also recalls his military service and explains his decision to become a police officer. Howard Saffold recalls his training to become a police officer. He discusses at length the relationship between police officers and the black community, and the intersections of racism and police brutality. Saffold also recounts instances of extreme police brutality during the 1968 riots after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Howard Saffold recounts police brutality and corruption in the late 1960s, particularly concerning the 1968 Democratic National Convention and the murder of Fred Hampton. He also recalls the founding of the Afro-American Patrolman's League, and the resistance it met. Howard Saffold lists the different organizations available to African American law enforcement officers, and describes their functions. He then discusses at length the divisions between officers and communities caused by racism. Howard Saffold details his involvement with the Afro-American Patrolman's League, particularly during Jane Byrne's and Harold Washington's mayoral terms. He also ponders the future of African American police organizations, and shares his work with the Positive Anti-Crime Thrust. Howard Saffold reflects on his life and career, and shares his opinion of The HistoryMakers.

39 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)