Rocking the Boat

'There is racism in the Metropolitan Police Service. It does have an impact on black police officers. It does contribute significantly in their decision to resign.' This unabashed statement from Paul Wilson was made 28 years ago when, as a sergeant he began efforts to set up the first constituted Black Police Association in the country. His explosive remarks came the day before the murder of Stephen Lawrence in April 1993. His book is a thought provoking narrative on the policing of colour inside and outside the Metropolitan Police spanning 3 decades, and from a senior officer who spent his career challenging the blind eyes to racism through the ranks. He offers a fascinating insight into how a black police officer endures firstly colleagues' racist insults and then the more endemic prejudice to become the Met Police's first ever black superintendent in Brixton. Last year's events around Black Lives Matter and the recurring controversies over stop and search are testament to Paul Wilson's analysis and his unrelenting battles for racial justice - Simon Israel Rocking the Boat presents a challenging read at this particular time for those concerned with the police and race relations ... The author is to be commended for his courage in sharing his experiences - Trevor Hall CBE, retired Race Equality Advisor to the Home Office For some, it brings back painful memories. For others, it will be met with disbelief and dismissal. It is part of New Scotland Yard's history ... into an institution of much greatness yet remains with issues when it comes to race that it finds difficult to acknowledge and thus resolve - Patricia F Gallan QPM, retired Assistant Commissioner, Metropolitan Police From establishing the Black Police Association, heavily influencing the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, discussing issues with a Home Secretary, a Prime Minister, and an American President, Paul's impact on policing cannot be overestimated. This book is not only a historical look over a fascinating career and an inspirational story of overcoming adversity, but it is also an important wake-up call in the Black Lives Matter era - Lord Brian Paddick, former Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Metropolitan Police A fact based, honest account of our divided world. As a Black female growing up in Apartheid South Africa and rising through the corporate world, I found some starking similarities and genuine inspirations in this book. Paul inspires the reader to never settle and have the courage of personal convictions. He evokes raw emotions - anger, surprise, pride, love and hope. This book is critical to continue the conversation on Race, Discrimination, Black Lives, Culture and White Privilege. A Must Read! - Lethepu Matshaba, Vice President, Unilever South Africa