The vision of the African American Christian Clergy Coalition is to promote unity among African
American Christian Clergy, in order that our individual lives will be enriched, our diverse churches
Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.
Chairperson
First Institutional Baptist Church,
602-258-1998, ext. 2210
Dr. Benjamin N. Thomas, Sr.
Vice–Chairperson
Historic Tanner Chapel A.M.E.
Church, 602-253-8426
Pastor L. Gary Ransom
Treasurer
Greater Progressive Christian
Church, 602-462-5525
Secretary
Pastor Aubrey L. Barnwell
Director of Operations
First New Life
Church, 602-276-4085
1141 East Jefferson Street | Phoenix Arizona 85034 | P. (602) 258-1998 | F. (602) 256-2957
and ministries will be strengthened, and the unique needs of our community will be addressed.
Luke 4:18-19; Ephesians 4:11-13
MY REMARKS ON BEHALF OF THE
AFRICAN AMERICAN CHRISTIAN CLERGY COALITION
TO THE PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL IN SUPPORT OF
#89 Adoption of Ordinance Adding New Chapter 20 to Phoenix City Code
Establishing Office of Accountability and Transparency (Ordinance G-6851)
May 19, 2021, 2:30 P.M.
Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., Chairperson
African American Christian Clergy Coalition
Mayor Gallego and Phoenix City Councilpersons, thank you for this opportunity to
speak in favor of item 89. After a decades-long advocacy, in February 2020, the
Phoenix City Council voted to approve establishing the Office of Accountability
and Transparency. The African American Christian Clergy Coalition celebrated
this long-sought victory for the entire city of Phoenix.
Please know that African-American clergy have had a respectful, productive and
amicable relationship with the Phoenix Police Department for the 44 years I have
served as Senior Pastor of the First Institutional Baptist Church. We have had a
working relationship with every Phoenix Police Chief.
Therefore, we envision the Office of Accountability and Transparency as a
significant and strategic step toward enhancing the relationship between Phoenix
Police and all communities and neighborhoods within the city of Phoenix,
especially communities of color.
With that being said, I strongly urge you, Mayor Gallego and Phoenix City
Councilmembers, to vote in favor of item 89.
Thank you very much. May God bless you.