When we think about community engagement, many times we immediately think of community watch meetings, engagement-parks, area plans, trails, and things most communities would love to discuss. A strong community will always find the right environment and time to talk about the tough topics, the sensitive issues, and this community did just that.
The Fayetteville Police Department hosted a recent initiative, “Cut the Chase Fade the Perception” Real Talk. The platform provided the ground for community members to have an honest dialogue on police and race relations in the African American community. The idea was simple but it was needed. Meet people where they are and where they routinely go (the barber shop) and start a conversation between officers and people of all ages in the community. The response was overwhelming and exemplified community engagement at its best.
In the center of what we are seeing on a national stage and the tense relationship between the police and some communities, it was refreshing to see the tremendous impact community engagement can have, especially when it’s a difficult topic. What would seem as two very different sides of the fence are building bridges to connect the community in a way that will have a lasting, positive impact. We are committed to leading community problem-solving efforts that improve the quality of life for all citizens of Fayetteville.
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"Cut the chase: fade the perception" Real talk
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