A conversation was held between youth and the NYPD Thursday to help build better relationships. 

The Bronx District Attorney’s Office says they are committed to fighting against the recent spike of gun violence. So, in an effort to bridge the gap between police and the youth in the Bronx, an open dialogue took place--with two Black commanding officers representing the NYPD. 

The discussion culminates the announcement from the DA’s office earlier this week of operation Save Our Sons and Sisters, which recognizes they’ve been plagued by gun violence for too long. 

Commanding officers Ben Gurley from the 43rd Precinct and Keiyon Ramsey from Police Service Area 8 shared their stories of growing up in the Bronx. 

They also addressed questions and concerns from the young people in attendance. The goal was to use the officers as a reflection and an example. 

“When you listen to their stories of how they were raised — poverty, underemployment, raised by single parents — and they rose through the NYPD. They decided to join the department to make a change and we want young people to see that. We want them to see themselves in their leaders,” said Councilmember Vanessa Gibson. 

Pastor Jay Gooding of Miracle Revival Temple Church says he had a recent conversation with his sons. He says they told them that they do not have respect for the police and that he knew from there, he had to host a night like this at the church. 

“As a father I said I need to bring that dialogue together so that other young people don’t feel that way because we’re living in a time when there’s no respect for the police department so right now, it’s about trying to get that understanding and respect from both sides,” said Gooding. 

Gooding also hopes to have more open dialogues in the near future.