International Association of Black Professional Firefighters facts for kids

The International Association of Black Professional Firefighters (IABPFF) is a group for Black firefighters. It was started in 1970. This organization helps over 8,000 fire service workers. These members are in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. They are part of 180 local groups called chapters.

History of the IABPFF

In September 1969, Black and other minority firefighters met in New York City. They talked about problems and unfair situations. These included how to get more young Black people into fire service. They also discussed how firefighters could have better relationships with communities. Improving fire prevention in needy areas was another key topic. This meeting led to the creation of the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters.

People gathering at the first IABPFF conference.

The first big meeting, or convention, of the IABPFF happened in October 1970. It was held in Hartford, Connecticut.

Lieutenant Nelson from Oklahoma City speaks about unfair treatment at the first IABPFF conference in 1969.

IABPFF Chapters

The IABPFF has many local groups called chapters. These chapters are organized by regions across the country. They help firefighters in their local areas.

• Southwest Region
• Northeast Region
  • Vulcan Society
  • The Valiants
  • Vulcan Blazers
  • Phoenix Society
  • Boston Society of Vulcans
• Southeast Region
  • Brothers and Sisters Combined
• Central Region
  • The Stentorians
  • Black Firefighters Association

IABPFF Medals

The IABPFF gives out special awards to honor brave and dedicated members.

IABPFF Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is for members who show great leadership. It also honors those who work hard for the IABPFF's goals. They must always be dedicated to helping others. In 2017, retired NYFD Lt. Ormond Smith received this award. He served the Vulcan Society and the IABPFF.

Medal of Valor

The Medal of Valor is given for acts of great bravery. It recognizes firefighters who show the best qualities of their job.

Some people who have received the Medal of Valor include:

• Brenda Denise Cowan was the first Black female firefighter in Lexington, Kentucky. She bravely died while on duty on February 13, 2004. She was the first Black female career firefighter to die in the line of duty. Brenda had worked for the Lexington Fire Department for twelve years. After her death, a law called the Brenda D. Cowan Act was passed. This law helps protect emergency workers from harm.
• Daryl Gordon was a firefighter in Cincinnati. He died while responding to a fire. He fell down an elevator shaft. Firefighters from all over the country attended his funeral.

IABPFF Motto

The IABPFF has a special motto. It celebrates the leaders who were brave enough to "speak truth to power." This means they spoke up against unfairness. For many years, they "kept the fire burning for Justice." This quote comes from Captain David J. Floyd. He was the first president of the IABPFF.

Working for Fairness in Fire Departments

In the 1970s and 1980s, the IABPFF helped make fire departments more fair. In some cities, lawsuits helped bring more diversity. This meant more Black and minority firefighters were hired. The IABPFF played a part in these legal efforts.

In other cities, agreements called "consent decrees" were used. These agreements helped set goals for hiring more diverse firefighters. This was important in places where fire departments were mostly white. These efforts helped to make fire services more welcoming to everyone.