NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison and other members of the department participated in a conversation today (Oct. 12) with 300 young men from across New Orleans on community policing and engagement with law enforcement.

"We want to be able to explain to you why we do what we do, and what keeps us safe and what keeps you safe. There is no such thing as the police department and the community. We are the community. We are the part of the community that is charged with serving and protesting you," Chief Harrison told the students.  

The Orleans Parish School Board ExCeed Network schools hosted the education event in partnership with the national initiative "Learn 2 Live," launched by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). 

During the event, NOBLE discussed law enforcement and community policing, an individual’s legal rights and law enforcement rules of engagement with students. Students selected from the audience then participated in interactive sessions demonstrating interaction with law enforcement. The program concluded with an hour-long Q&A session, allowing students to ask questions to a panel of experts with law enforcement and civil rights backgrounds.

Participating OPSB ExCEED Network schools include Eleanor McMain Secondary, McDonogh 35 Senior High, Mary Bethune Elementary and Benjamin Franklin Elementary schools.