Kalamazoo Police Try Unique Approach to Gather Recruits

Without adding any of my own opinions, I think its safe to say that the relationship between police and the public, especially people of color, has been strained. Not just this year but for many years past. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is hoping to mend those relationships in a new way.

Earlier this week, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, or KDPS, took to the streets of the community in the hopes of recruiting new officers. As reported by News Channel 3 WWMT, officers spent the day recruiting in several different neighborhoods and were well received.

According to Captain Rafael Diaz, this wasn't just a recruitment effort but an attempt to build trust with the people of Kalamazoo. He's said,

We are having tough conversation and we are not shying away from it and we are at the forefront of it. And what we want to do is encourage people that if you see something in yourself that you want to share with the community come join our force

The effort had an affect on at least one Kalamazoo resident, Montrell Gray. Gray was quoted saying,

I don’t want my children to grow up like I grew up, in fear of the police. And then grow up to find out that he is technically doing his job. I want my children to know that they are here to help us, not all of them do it but majority of them stand behind what that badge means.

And that's why he'll be applying.

You see the bumper stickers everywhere you go, "Be the change you wish to see in the world". It's a quote falsely believed to be said by Gandhi, but it still delivers a good message. One that Gray seems to be taking to heart.

If you're interested there's still time to apply. Eight days to be exact. Keep in mind, training will take over a year. But, if you'd like to apply you can here.

And if you're in need of some good news on this Thursday, check out this story of police in Grand Rapids and what they did for a local child on his birthday.