As part of a "Conversations about Race and Culture Series," a forum about the use of force by police and the influence of the media will be hosted on Tuesday, May 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Circle of Friends, 121 107th Ave. NE. The series focuses on building positive community relations by bringing people together to share information and perspectives.

The event is free and open to everyone. It will feature speakers Chief Linda Pillo, Bellevue Police Department and John Hamer, President of the Washington News Council, followed by small group discussions. 

Discussion topics will include legal rights and responsibilities of police officers and citizens, and how use of force by police is administered. The program will also explore how the media shapes society's views about interaction between law enforcement and the public. Several Bellevue Police Officers and Bellevue Police Diversity Focus Group members will be at hand to assist in discussions.

The forum is sponsored by the Parks & Community Services Cultural Diversity Program.

Interested members of the general public, media, law enforcement and legal profession are especially encouraged to attend. For more information and to RSVP (requested by noon on May 2) call 425-452-7886 or email khenry@bellevuewa.gov.

Return to News Release Index