A Nationally Accredited Law Enforcement Agency
The event was sponsored by the Rhode Island State Police, Providence Police Department, local law enforcement agencies, "Project: Night Vision," and "It's on Us". Recruits from the Rhode Island State Police Training Academy and the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy also participated in the forum.
This community forum allowed both law enforcement and community members to engage in an open discussion about the relationship between the communities and law enforcement. The moderators were Dwayne "Boo" Hackney of "It's on Us" and Kobi Dennis of "Project: Night Vision." Attending the forum were parents, teachers, community leaders, volunteers, local service agencies, and area youth.
The goal of "A New Beginning" Community Forum is to engage local community members and leaders in a proactive approach to address commonalities as well as differences throughout the community and law enforcement. "A New Beginning" is a new initiative created solely for the purpose of sharing ideas between community members and law enforcement to allow a greater respect for one another during a positive open discussion. Recognizing respect will create better community relations and better decision making. Common themes may include but are not limited to: Change in our communities, civil rights, cultural awareness, family as an entity, parental guidelines/expectations, community policing, residential concerns/views, and working together to make a difference.
In an effort to form positive relationships at all levels, attendees were welcome to express ideas and thoughts for improvement as well as positive changes. This conversational forum offered great insight into change that is possible in the near future and hope for a more collaborative effort at both the state and local levels.
The forum was held in the gymnasium at the Madeline Rogers Community Center. Children's Friend & Service distributed school backpacks to the first 50 students in attendance.
Photos intentionally blurred to protect the identity of juveniles.
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
