The Valiants (firefighters) facts for kids
The Valiants of Philadelphia is a special group of Black and Latino firefighters in Pennsylvania. Their main goal is to inspire young people in cities to become firefighters or work in public safety. They also teach everyone about fire prevention and how to stay safe.
This organization started in 1962. It was one of the first groups to help create the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters. This larger group works to stop racial discrimination that African-American firefighters have faced in the United States.
The Valiants were inspired by the Vulcan Society from the Fire Department of New York. The Vulcan Society was a group of Black firefighters formed in 1940. They worked to bring more diversity and help minority individuals join public service jobs.
Contents
A Look Back: The Valiants' Story
How The Valiants Began
In March 1962, Philadelphia Fire Lieutenant Samuel Singleton started The Valiants. He wanted a group for Black firefighters, similar to other groups in the Philadelphia Fire Department. These other groups were often based on religion or background and usually did not welcome Black firefighters.
African-American firefighters had been part of the Philadelphia Fire Department since 1886. However, until 1952, fire companies were kept separate based on race. This meant there were only two fire companies for Black firefighters. After 1952, more African-Americans joined the department. But even with integration, there were often disagreements and difficulties.
The Valiants first came together for social events and to connect families. Soon, they realized they could do much more. They started helping new firefighters, teaching fire safety in minority communities, and volunteering for good causes.
Forming a Bigger Team: The IABPF
In 1969, The Valiants joined with other firefighter groups from New York City, Hartford, and New Jersey. They met in New York City, and this meeting led to the creation of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters (IABPF) in 1970. This new, larger group aimed to fight unfair treatment in fire departments across America. They also worked to help more minority individuals get hired and promoted.
Several Valiants members played key roles in starting the IABPF. Charles Hendricks, who was The Valiants' first treasurer, became the IABPF's treasurer. William Brogden from The Valiants was chosen as the first recording secretary. Ron Lewis, another Valiant, became the regional head for the Northeast.
As of 2017, The Valiants are the largest group within the IABPF, which has about 8,000 members.
Working for Fairness: The Consent Decree
In 1973, a quick study of hiring and promotion practices in Philadelphia showed a pattern of unfair treatment. The Valiants took legal action to change how the Philadelphia Fire Department hired people. This led to a special agreement in 1975 called a "consent decree."
Under this agreement, the department promised to promote more Black firefighters to higher positions. They also agreed to increase the hiring of minority individuals. This decree guided the department for 36 years, until a court paused it in 2011. By 2011, Derrick Sawyer, an African-American, was leading the 2,100-person department as Fire Commissioner.
The Valiants continue to watch how firefighters and EMS (Emergency Medical Services) personnel are hired. In 2011, the group filed a lawsuit against the firefighters' union, International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and the City of Philadelphia. They claimed there was still unfair treatment and a difficult work environment. The lawsuit was settled, and Black firefighters gained more involvement in union activities. They also got the chance to run for leadership roles in the union.
Valiants in Leadership: Promotions and Achievements
Many members of The Valiants have moved up through the ranks to become leaders in the Fire Department. The first African-American Fire Commissioner of Philadelphia was Harold B. Hairston. He was a member of both The Valiants and the IABPF.
Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers also served as President and Northeast Region Director for the IABPF. In 1984, Deputy Commissioner Donald Patton became the first African-American to reach that high position. He also served as President of The Valiants. Each year, The Valiants give a scholarship in his name to a student. This honors Deputy Commissioner Patton, who cared deeply about education.
Other Valiants who achieved great things include Deputy Chief Al Nelson; Battalion Chiefs Earnest Hargett, Jr. and Norman Ray; Captain Clarence Brogden; Lieutenants Lisa Forrest, Berry Hutchins, Eric Johnson, Larry Clark, and Eric Stukes; and The Valiants' founding member, Charles Hendricks.
Honored by the City
In 2013, The Valiants celebrated their fiftieth anniversary. The City Council of Philadelphia passed a resolution to honor them. This recognized their 50 years of hard work for fairness and justice.
Documentaries
- "Valiants, Inc." Chandra Jones 2013 Silver Award Philafilm Festival
- "Clarence Brogden" Mike Feagans 2008 Philadelphia Stories
- "Waldo Gentry - Being Detailed from Engine 11" Mike Feagans 2008 Philadelphia Stories
See also
