Deputy Joyce Jackson becomes Tangipahoa Parish's first Black female to run for Sheriff
Leading into the final weeks of campaigning, The Drum interviewed Jackson to find out more about this history maker and her ambitions for Tangipahoa Sheriff.
As the Tangipahoa Parish gears up to choose the next Sheriff, Joyce Jackson has made history as the first Black female to campaign for the parish’s top law enforcement position.
Born and raised in the heart of Tangipahoa Parish, Jackson’s lineage is deeply rooted in the fabric of this community. Her grandfather was the last living survivor of slavery in the region. Jackson said when he passed at the incredible age of 113, he left a legacy that propelled her toward a path of generational transformation.
Jackson graduated from Independence High School and earned a bachelor of arts degree from Southeastern Louisiana University. For 18 years, she has been a sheriff’s deputy. She is also a certified paralegal with extensive experience in both the private and governmental sectors. She has served in the federal government for NASA, worked with two financial institutions, spent eight years with the Tangipahoa Parish School System, and seven years at the 21st Judicial District Attorney’s office before leaving in 2004 to join Sheriff Daniel Edwards’ administrative team.
“My combined education and experience uniquely qualifies me to serve as Sheriff by working simultaneously and seamlessly with the courts, district attorney’s office, and multiple law enforcement agencies, local, state, and federal,” said Jackson. A Leadership Tangipahoa graduate and member of New Life Church of Christ, Jackson is also a board member for OPTIONS where she mentors preteens and young adults.
“My priority is to foster robust relationships between the Sheriff's Office and the residents we proudly serve. I firmly believe that while we may not have all the answers individually, through collaborative efforts, we can collectively achieve remarkable outcomes. This is just a snapshot of my ongoing involvement in the community, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute even more.”
Tangipahoa Parish absentee voting is September 30 - October 7, 2023. The Primary Election is Saturday, October 14, 2023, 7am - 8pm.
Leading into the final weeks of campaigning, The Drum interviewed Jackson to find out more about this history maker and her ambitions for Tangipahoa Sheriff.
“This endeavor is fueled by a profound belief in the potential for change. With a tenure spanning over 15 years in the sheriff's office, I have borne witness to our shortcomings and limitations in maintaining the status quo. Our parish jail, an aging and deteriorating structure, demands attention. A primary focus of my campaign lies in the rectification of inmate living conditions and areas of concern within the facility. To this end, I am committed to modernizing security measures and upgrading camera systems, thus enhancing the safety not only of inmates but also of our dedicated corrections staff.
Furthermore, my vision extends beyond confinement and into the realm of empowerment. It is my strong conviction that providing inmates with fundamental job preparation and technical training can act as a pivotal factor in reducing recidivism rates. This notion stems from my unwavering belief in surpassing conventional educational limits. Through these transformative initiatives, inmates can acquire concrete skills, thereby reigniting their self-worth and revitalizing their hope—a much-needed flame within them.
I propose a shift from the ordinary scope of education toward comprehensive technical training and job readiness programs. This approach seeks to equip inmates with the tools they need for reintegration into society, offering them genuine opportunities for growth and change.”
“Through my candidacy, I am committed to ushering in a new era—one defined by innovation, empathy, and resilience. Together, as a community, we can actualize these visions of transformation,” she said.
What do you see as the biggest crime problem confronting Tangipahoa Parish?
The predominant issue afflicting our parish is the proliferation of gun violence and the cascading impact it has on families in our community.
Nationally, we are seeing an increase in the number of juvenile criminals. How will you reach out to the young people of Tangipahoa?
To effectively address the surge in juvenile crimes, it is imperative that we adopt a unified approach. Achieving this requires active participation from parents, educators, the community, and the youth themselves to reshape the current narrative. Building strong relationships between the Sheriff's Office and the communities we serve is paramount, especially in underserved and crime-affected areas.
A proactive strategy, implemented before young individuals enter the juvenile court system, is crucial. Appointing community champions who can navigate their neighborhoods and provide safe spaces for youth facing adversity is a key component of this approach. Identifying and properly funding outreach opportunities within the educational sector is equally vital.
This challenge affects us all, and by holding all stakeholders and elected officials accountable and taking collective action, we can work towards positive change together.
Are drugs a problem in the parish? If so, what is your plan to address the problem?
Yes, the issue of illegal drugs and prescription drug abuse poses a significant concern for our parish. It is imperative that we proactively raise awareness by implementing better community support programs in the place of the current programs that are both underfunded and underutilized.
As Sheriff, I would also foster a close collaboration with local nonprofits actively engaged in community support to assist those most affected by illegal drugs and prescription drug abuse.
Having worked in law enforcement for nearly 20 years, I recognize that we can no longer afford to wait until these issues enter the criminal justice system before addressing them. Instead, we must take preventative measures in tandem with our community and church leaders who are tirelessly combatting the drug epidemic on a daily basis. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
What changes do you believe need to be made in the way the sheriff’s department is operated as compared to past administrations?
From a broader perspective, fostering community unity is essential. I believe in actively seeking out the perspectives of diverse stakeholders. By collaborating with community organizations, advocacy groups, and local leaders, I can ensure that my decisions are well-informed and reflective of the varied perspectives within the constituency.
To strengthen the bond between the elected office and the community, I will prioritize regular updates through newsletters, social media, and other communication channels. Transparency about my actions, decisions, and policy positions will be a cornerstone of my approach.
In essence, my commitment to representing the people goes beyond campaign rhetoric; it's a fundamental principle that guides my every action. By maintaining an open line of communication, embracing diverse viewpoints, and valuing the input of those I serve, I aim to inspire trust, empower engagement, and ultimately enhance the democratic process for the betterment of our community.
There are many problems at the jail that a new sheriff must address. How will you address those problems and will you consider a change in leadership?
Addressing the problems at the jail is a top priority for me as a potential new sheriff. To tackle these issues effectively, I will take the following approach:
Assessment and Collaboration: First, I will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the problems at the jail, working closely with experienced professionals and experts in corrections. This will provide a clear understanding of the challenges we face.
Transparency and Accountability: Transparency is key. I will ensure that the community is informed about the issues and our plans to address them. Accountability will be a fundamental principle in our operations, both within the jail and in interactions with the community.
Staff Training and Development: Properly trained and motivated staff are crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient jail system. I will invest in ongoing training and professional development for correctional officers and staff.
Inmate Rehabilitation and Support: We need to focus on rehabilitation and support programs for inmates to reduce recidivism. This includes providing educational opportunities, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.
Overcrowding and Infrastructure: If the jail is facing issues related to overcrowding or outdated infrastructure, we will explore options for expansion or renovation while working within budget constraints.
Community Engagement: I will actively engage with the community to understand their concerns and gather input on improving the jail system. Community involvement is essential for effective reform.
As for considering a change in leadership, I believe in continuous improvement. If my assessment reveals that the problems are rooted in leadership issues, I will consider making necessary changes to ensure that we have the right leadership in place to address these challenges effectively.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a safer, more humane, and efficient jail system that benefits both the inmates and the community as a whole.