A conversation that's been hitting headlines and communities across the country landed in Hartford Thursday night as another city opened the lines of communication when it comes to interactions between the police and the public.
"There's a problem everywhere. We're seeing it. Youth are being slain left and right. It's definitely a problem," said Hartford resident Marjorie Terry.
To combat the problem, dozens crowded the Hartford Public Library for a forum that came about in response to the recent police-involved deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner.
Mayor Pedro Segarra says he supports the use of police body cameras, that chokeholds are not allowed, and announced a program to help bring diversity to the police department.
"Starting in September there will be in Hartford a public safety academy for our youth so that our policing community reflects the community that it serves," said Mayor Segarra.
Thursday night wasn't just about informing, it was about brainstorming with the public for ways to foster a positive relationship between police and residents.
"It's time for us to come together and collaborate and make change," said Terry.
"If we start from the families and try to help build and strengthen them then I really believe we can become more powerful as a community," said Hartford resident Tasha Rose.
Organizers say the forum was an important start and that the conversation must continue if change is expected.
