With the recent tragic events at the Naval Yard in Washington, D.C. and in Newtown, Connecticut, the subject of violence in communities is at the forefront of the minds of many Americans. Last year, 333 people were murdered in Philadelphia and 75% of the victims and perpetrators were African American males. In communities where people of color are without jobs, healthcare and homes, many are resorting to a life of crime. And while poverty is not an excuse for criminal behavior, it is an explanation for it. What are some long-term solutions for decreasing violence in minority communities? While there are policy efforts in place to combat international terrorism, are there equal policies in place to combat domestic terrorism? How can local, state and federal agencies collaborate to combat crime effectively in U.S. communities of color?
Panelists:
Courtney Gaskins, Director of Program Services, Youth for Tomorrow
Daniel Isom, Former Chief, Metropolitan Police Department of St. Louis and Professor, Policing and the Community, University of Missouri-St. Louis
Cathy Lanier, Chief, Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia
Withelma “T” Ortiz Walker Pettigrew, Survivor, Leader and Advocate
Ray Suarez, Host, “Inside Story,” Al Jazeera (moderator)
