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Tacoma police look to bridge gap with teens of color

The discussion was aimed at bridging the gap some high school students say they feel when it comes to dealing with police.
Tacoma police officers welcomed feedback about policing from Stadium High School students.

Tacoma police officers welcomed feedback about policing from Stadium High School students Wednesday.

The discussion centered on contacts between the police and minorities, particularly African-American males.

“Speaking as a person of color, it hits home,” said one of the moderators, Lizette Harris. She helped lead the discussion organized by Project PEACE, a community group launched by the city in 2015.

“It’s definitely a positive experience to be a part of this because you get to see both sides, not seeing the police as an organization,” said Che Rogers, a Stadium High School senior and student moderator. “You get to see the officers individually, so it’s more of a personal contact, which makes it easier to have a conversation.”

Tacoma’s assistant police chief, Ed Wade, said the students’ voices add a unique perspective.

“We have to get your input and so that’s what these dialogues are all about,” he told the students.

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