Training fosters better relations for communities and police

Following the tragic shooting of Antwon Rose II, politicians and community residents alike demanded that racial reconciliation and implicit bias training be provided to officers in boroughs and municipalities throughout Allegheny County. Recently, I had the opportunity to organize an implicit bias session with officers and residents from Braddock, Duquesne and Rankin. This event was hosted by Black Women for Positive Change (BW4PC), and Braddock business owner Aunt Cheryl.

The event brought together various elements of the community that do not speak with each other often. We put a priority on racial reconciliation, implicit bias and de-escalation at the federal and local levels and over the past six years have tried to bring groups together in Pittsburgh and around the nation. We believe that in addition to the important protests being organized by the Alliance for Police Accountability, BPEP and others, there must be opportunities for police and community leaders to have face-to-face discussions on how to achieve justice in community/police relationships.

BW4PC Pittsburgh is working with Pittsburgh police to facilitate more training sessions. Feedback from participants has been positive. And we are hopeful that Allegheny County will begin to offer this training to suburban departments. We are ready to help. DIANE POWELL

Chair Black Women for Positive Change, Pittsburgh

Brookline