Statewide alert systems are used to notify the public about crucial scenarios and circumstances. And a new alert, known as the Ebony Alert, has been introduced to New York legislation with Senate Bill S8345 for implementation but faces current obstacles to progress. Here’s everything you need to know about an Ebony Alert, from what is is to how to help.
What is an Ebony Alert?
An Ebony Alert becomes activated when there is a report of a missing Black youth under suspicious or unexplained circumstances, they’re at risk, cognitively impaired or developmentally disabled.
Why introduce an Ebony Alert system?
The Ebony Alert system intends to tackle the disparities in missing person cases via resources and media coverage for missing Black youth. The current lack thereof can weaken search efforts that could lead to a safe recovery.
What’s the difference between an Ebony Alert and an Amber Alert?
An Ebony Alert is specific to missing Black youth between the ages of 12-25. An Amber Alert however, is activated when any child under 18 is abducted.
Where is an Ebony Alert communicated?
Ebony Alerts and the information about the missing person are sent through electronic highway signs, TV and radio broadcasts, social media platforms and other methods of electronic communication when activated by law enforcement agencies.
How can you help once an Ebony Alert is issued?
To aid in the missing person case following the issuance of an Ebony Alert, the public can report sightings or information relating to the case to law enforcement and share the information about the alert across social media.
Which state created the Ebony Alert?
California was the first state in the nation to create the Ebony Alert system in January of 2024.
What’s the status of this bill in New York?
The progress of Senate Bill S8345 is last shown in committee in the Senate. However, as of May 6, 2024, the bill was enacting clause stricken, which means its main sponsor has removed their support for the bill and a new legislator will need to reintroduce the idea with a new bill number to advance its efforts.