HomeIssuesPolice-Community Relations

Protecting Communities, Serving the Public

Poor relations between community members and police can lead to feelings of distrust, anger and fear. Citizens may think the police are prejudiced and have unfair policies. Police may feel blame for all kinds of social problems, and think they don't get credit for doing their jobs.

Dialogue-to-change programs help people build the trusting relationships necessary for long-term change. People from diverse backgrounds and experiences develop trust, understand each other's experiences, and work together on solutions.

Read profiles of programs working to improve community-police relations in their communities

Success Stories
News Articles
October 9, 2008 | Yonkers Tribune | Yonkers, New York CLUSTER Launches Police/Youth Dialogue Project
April 30, 2008 | NY Faith & Justice | South Bronx, New York Bell verdict prompts call for conversations and truth commission Sean Bell: Restorative Justice Now!
June 4, 2007 | Cincinnati Enquirer | Cincinnati, Ohio Attorney: Collaborative Agreement has helped city, deserves consideration for being extended
by Al Gerhardstein
May 17, 2007 | Stratford Star | Stratford, Connecticut Forum focuses on schools, cops Action groups formed to address 'two Stratfords' issues
by Fred Musante
March 22, 2007 | Pittsburgh City Paper | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Military Police Military-style police tactics reflect--and arguably worsen--distrust between black neighborhoods and police
by Charlie Deitch
March 27, 2006 | The Southern | Carbondale, Illinois Study circles offer public chance to interact with police
by Linda Rush
February 8, 2006 | Fayetteville Observer | Fayetteville, North Carolina Community relations focus of study circles in Fayetteville, N.C. NAACP seeks answers in 2 deaths
by Melissa Willett
November 7, 2005 | Daily Egyptian | Carbondale, Illinois Community and police work to build better relations in Carbondale, Ill.
by Jaclyn Brenning
October 30, 2005 | Toledo Blade | Lima, Ohio Lima citizens united to subdue gangs Participants say effort called on broadest array of agencies and institutions
by Jennifer Feehan
New! Issue Guide Exchange
Find a program

Support Everyday Democracy: Donate Now!
Stay informed!

Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter and learn the latest in organizing dialogues for change.

Already registered on this site or on StudyCircles.org? Sign in

Newsletter archives