Chicago program aims to prevent deadly confrontations with police
CHICAGO -- In Chicago, there is a program aimed at preventing deadly confrontations with police.
In this role-play program, police pretend to be teenagers. And teens, act as police.
The role playing exercise at a high school assembly is run by the Chicago Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.
The goal is for students and police to learn from each other.
“It was very helpful and to actually get the experience and perspective,” said senior Rodney Jackson.
“They showed us their everyday life in little scenes,” said another senior Latrice Williams.
“You have your own perception of it...but then when you get that other perception you kinda see how it plays hand in hand and what’s it like...to have phones this close to your face while you’re trying to talk to somebody, it’s not your ideal way to handle it,” said another senior Rodney Jackson.
South Holland police chief Gregory Baker said he became an officer after his friend was gunned down by police.
“We protect. We serve, but the part that’s not mentioned a lot is we care. Ninety-nine percent of the police officers...got into this job because they care about people. That’s what it’s all about,” said Baker.
Chicago police officer Caeana Sanders said everyone is not against the police, just like the police are not all against the community.
“People really do want that partnership. They want to feel safe,” she said.
Many of the seniors agree, this program needed to happened.
“Change has to start somewhere... and I think this is a good place to start,” said senior Ayo Taiwo.
With a conversation to avoid confrontation.
