“More Police in Fort Greene? Critical Thoughts on Responding to Crime” .

At 6:30pm on Friday, January 28th 2011,t Fort Greene SNAP is hosting a community forum called  “More Police in Fort Greene? Critical Thoughts on Responding to Crime” . The forum is intended to add to public discussion about policing in Fort Greene through presentations of critical and realistic perspectives of police actions.  

At the event, three people who have been involved in the struggle for more accountable policing or alternatives to policing will share their thoughts on the risks of a heavier NYPD presence in the neighborhood. The speakers are

Hakeem Jeffries: NY State Assembly, 57th District

Chelsea Johnson-Long: Audre Lorde Project’s Safe OUTside of the System Collective

Alex Vitale: Assistant Professor at Brooklyn College

In recent months there has been increased public discussion on rising crime in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. As a response, some have called for the Police Commissioner to station more foot patrols of beat cops into the area.

But more police doesn’t necessarily mean things get better for community residents. NYPD practices have been experienced in very unequal ways, particularly in areas that are majority folks of color and poor. Most recently, in Brownsville, NYPD practices have equated to the systematic harassment of residents through the intensified use of the stop and frisk tactic.

Following the presentations there will be a period for questions, answers and discussion.

This community forum will be held at Fort Greene SNAP, 324 Myrtle Avenue in Brooklyn, New York. Refreshments will be provided!