A decade-long project called “To Protect, Serve and Understand” brings together seven NYPD officers and seven civilians to create theater and foster understanding. The program was founded by Terry Greiss in response to the Eric Garner case, with Garner’s mother attending a recent rehearsal. The participants, who are not actors, undergo a 10-week workshop on performance and improvisation to learn how collaboration and communication can change opinions. The officers aim to show their humanity, while civilians strive to gain a different perspective. The project’s message is about bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community through dialogue and active listening.
Gwen Carr emphasized the healing power of art and expressed pride in the program’s achievements thus far. The public is invited to attend the free showings on January 17th and 18th at The Space at Irondale. The overarching goal of “To Protect, Serve and Understand” is to promote empathy and mutual understanding between law enforcement and civilians, with the hope of fostering positive interactions moving forward. With the support of the NYPD and the dedication of its participants, the project continues to make a significant impact in building bridges and breaking down barriers within the community.
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