Retired London police Sgt. Lewis “Bud” Coray says the very fact he had a career in policing was a miracle.
He served 30 years with the London police service, starting out as a uniformed officer, then rising through the ranks to work in the criminal investigations division before becoming a detective in the fraud unit. However, when Coray applied in the 1950s he was certain he would not even be considered for the job due to the colour of his skin.
"When I applied in August 1951 I didn't think I had a chance in a hole in the ground because I was coloured," Coray told a large gathering at London police headquarters on Tuesday. "Little did I know, I would become a role model for the younger generation of minority officers."
Police Chief Steve Williams, retired police Sgt. Lewis “Bud” Coray, and Police Services Board chair Dr. Javeed Sukhera.
Coray, now 94, was the police service's first black police officer. Now, 69 years later, his trailblazing efforts are being immortalized through the dedication of the Lewis ‘Bud’ Coray Community Room at police headquarters at 601 Dundas Street. The newly painted room adorned with a plaque featuring glossy photos of Coray during his time with the police service, is used as a gathering place for officers and community members to learn and celebrate achievements.
"I cannot express in words the joy and pride I feel. I am truly honoured," said Coray.
Chief Steve Williams, London Police Services Board chair Dr. Javeed Sukhera, past and present officers, and Coray's family gave the veteran officer a standing ovation during the dedication ceremony.
“Bud remains a positive role model for anybody with a dream, regardless of race, ethnicity or heritage," said Williams. "We know that together we are stronger. Bud helped teach us that."
Before presenting Coray with the "Chief's coin" - a coin given to those who embody the spirit and character of what it means to be a member of the police service, a good citizen, and human being - Williams drew everyone's attention to a tiny blue marble in Coray's pocket.
The plaque in honour of Lewis Coray at police headquarters.
The marble was given to Coray upon his hiring in 1951 by former police chief Earl Knight. Inscribed in gold lettering around the small sphere are the words "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
"Bud continues to carry this marble with him every day and it is the motto by which he lives," said Williams as Coray held the marble up high. "You blazed a trail for diversity within our police service. You did so with a sense of perseverance, optimism, and strength. One of your friends said it quite simply... 'you're just a good man,'" said Williams.
This isn't the first time the London Police Service has paid tribute to Coray. In 2012, the service created the “Lewis Coray Trailblazer Award." The honour is given annually to a local youth in recognition of Black History Month. This year it will be awarded during a two-hour ceremony at police headquarters on February 27.