Code Switch "The police are our friends"?
Jan 8, 2025
Chenjerai Kumanyika, a Professor at NYU Journalism and host of Empire City, discusses how Black parents navigate conversations about police with their children. He shares his personal journey of talking to his daughter, addressing the tension between fear and trust. The conversation highlights the complex legacy of policing, rooted in systemic issues, and the challenges of instilling safety while fostering an understanding of law enforcement. Kumanyika sheds light on historical ties between the NYPD and community relations, urging thoughtful discourse in today's climate.
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Cartoon Cops
- Chenjerai Kumanyika's daughter learned about police from a cartoon singing "The police are our friends".
- This prompted Chenjerai to think about how to discuss policing with his daughter, as she absorbs information rapidly.
Scooter Incident
- Chenjerai's daughter fell on her scooter, and police officers approached to help.
- Later, she expressed fear of police, worried they would take her to jail.
Honest Descriptions
- When discussing police with children, be specific and avoid generalizations.
- Describe events without adding ideological interpretations like "police are always helpful".