Caucus of African American Leaders, National Coalition of 100 Black Women Anne Arundel County Chapter to Host Candidates Debate and Honor Diversity Progress in Annapolis Police Department

Residents of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County will have an opportunity to hear directly from candidates seeking key roles in the local justice system while also recognizing the Annapolis Police Department for its achievements in diversity during a special community event scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Hosted by the Caucus of African American Leaders in partnership with the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Anne Arundel County Chapter, the Courthouse Candidates Debate and recognition program will be held at the Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center, located at 1101 Smithville Street in Annapolis. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., with the evening’s program beginning promptly thereafter.

Organizers say the event will serve both as a civic engagement forum and as a celebration of the Annapolis Police Department’s progress in building a more diverse department that better reflects the community it serves. According to organizers, the recognition acknowledges decades of effort and advancement toward greater representation and inclusion within the department’s ranks and leadership.

The event will feature candidates for Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney, including Carolynn Grammas and Anne Colt Leitess, as well as candidates seeking Circuit Court judge positions, including Rowena N. Nelson, Sidney A. Butcher, Ginna A. Jackson-Stevenson, and Elizabeth Adams. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates regarding their qualifications, priorities, and perspectives on issues impacting the local justice system and broader community.

Remarks are expected from Caucus Convener Carl Snowden, Senator Shaneka Henson, Sheriff Everett Sesker, Colonel Orlando Lilly of the Maryland Natural Resources Police, and Colonel Glend McGuire, Jr. of the Maryland Capitol Police, followed by remarks from Annapolis Mayor Jared Littmann. Chief Amy Miguez of the Annapolis Police Department will introduce featured speaker Retired Chief Joseph S. Johnson.

The evening is intended to encourage civic participation, recognize achievements in diversity and inclusion within local law enforcement, and foster greater community engagement in the democratic process.