Community Policing Working Group Report (2021-2022)

The virtual listening sessions were the result of a long-term partnering relationship with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and Howard University. This partnership allowed for faculty and students of color to lead and engage with community members on multiple occasions throughout the year. Research has identified the importance of race, especially in engagements with police and communities of color. Therefore, Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs)/HBCUs should be at the forefront of the discussion. Building a leadership model through your local HBCUs will allow for the community engagement and dialogue to remain ongoing. Oftentimes, the dialogue between community and law enforcement ends after the allotted time for the project. The work of building strong community-police relations is a process that takes time and dedication from all involved.