c. 1953-2000
Barbara George was the first woman and first African American woman police captain. Sharpe James called her a “trailblazer, role model and…hero”.
Barbara was the sister of Gigi Foushee, who also served with the police, one of 7 children. After graduating Weequahic in 1970 and Bloomfield College, she taught science.
Barbara joined the police in 1981, winning the prize for outstanding academic achievement. She became the first female sergeant in Police Department in 1990 and in 1993, the first female lieutenant. She became a Captain in 1998.
Barbara said of herself and her sister (1993), “We like being the first and making history.” She said (1990), “People have stigmatized me because I’m Black and a woman…but there’s just something in me that makes me keep moving.”
Bibliography
Kukla, Barbara. “Community Salutes Barbara George” Star Ledger Mar 23, 2000
“Historical Appointment” Jet Magazine Mar 9, 1998
Cummings, Charles “Black Pioneers in Public Service” Star Ledger Feb 24, 2005
Underdue, Towanda. “Badge of distinction” Star Ledger Aug 13, 1990
Walker, Steven “Eight Newark police…” Star Ledger Jan 23, 1998
Borondy, Kinga “Newark’s Finest” Star Ledger April 28, 1993
Borondy, Kinga “Woman Cop’s Promotion Delayed” Star Ledger Dec 21, 1991
Woody, Kenneth “33 New Cops” Star Ledger Dec 30, 1981
Underdue, Towanda, “Badge of distinction” Star Ledger Aug 13, 1990
Borondy, Kinga “Pride shows…” Star Ledger Jun 3, 1990