Supporting the men and women of the New Orleans Police Department is as easy as spending a couple hours at the park.

On Saturday, Jan. 31, the New Orleans Police & Justice Foundation and New Orleans Police Superintendent Michael Harrison are jointly hosting “Backs the Blue,” a two-hour event at Federal City in Algiers.

NOPD officers volunteer during the most recent NOLA For Life Day, which took place earlier this month. Help support them during Backs the Blue on Jan. 31. (Photo Courtesy New Orleans Police Department on Facebook)

As police departments across the country face great challenges this year, the “Backs the Blue” event allows all New Orleans citizens to uphold the work of NOPD: policing is often a highly dangerous, thankless job that these officers perform with courage and valor. All you have to do is wear at least one article of light blue clothing, if possible, to create a sense of solidarity and support. You also can bring a cardboard sign displaying a message of positivity or gratitude for NOPD.

The event will take place from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. at Federal City, a large, mixed-use space in Algiers that’s right on the Mississippi. You’ll find decadent, Southern-inspired food from Kenny’s Cajun Creole Food Truck and Food 4 Da Soul (think fried catfish filets, crawfish beignets, and gooey butter cake), plus live music and even kids’ activities provided by the West Bank YMCA.

“Backs the Blue” goes beyond just a fun outdoor gathering. By putting a face on the uniform, New Orleans residents will have a deeper understanding that police officers are truly a part of our community. Police work takes great dedication and love – not only for the work itself but also for the city. The men and women of NOPD are more than just authority figures: they are our friends, neighbors, and family.

Don’t forget to wear your light blue on Jan. 31: New Orleans will show its unwavering support for NOPD!