Black History Is Now Taught To D.C. Police In New Training Program

Steps are being taken to rectify the relationship between the Washington D.C. Police Department and the neighborhoods they serve as officers are now required to take part in a brand-new training program that will include African-American classes to help improve community policing.

From the Washington Post, Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser is introduced a program on Friday (April 13^th) stating that D.C. is “committed to accountability” and to strengthen the bonds of trust between the MPD and their residents.

D.C. Police Chief Peter Newsham spoke very highly about the new program:

I think there are some that would like to ignore that troubling history of law enforcement in our country. But, we believe it’s critically important that it remains a part of our education and understanding. And most importantly, it’s something we can learn from.

The new training program include a three-hour black history lesson, a tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture and a lesson on U Street, where officers will examine police brutality.

Let's hope other police departments will follow suit to improve community policing.