BROOKLYN (WABC) -- Six years ago, the Eric Garner protests riveted the city, and actor Terry Greiss.
Months of unrest were enough for Greiss to co-found a program 'To Protect, Serve, and Understand' five years ago, getting seven NYPD officers and community members were in a room sharing beliefs and role-playing. At first, the meetings were held in person, but they are now on zoom due to COVID. The discussions are difficult.
ALSO READ | Say their Names': Stories of Black Americans killed by police
The program is ten weeks long. Greiss says it's not easy - participants need to be dedicated, need to be willing to hear what they don't want to hear, and also be willing to understand another perspective.
NYPD Officer Miguel Van-Brakle is an alumni of the program now.
"Some struggles were having to converse with people who had radically different points of view," said Van-Brakle.
ALSO READ | NYPD organizes basketball tournament to help strengthen community ties
The department chose Officer Van-Brakle after he received a few complaints. The program is a life-changer, especially at a recent protest, when a woman began heckling him.
"I realized this is that subject in real life - after a while she realized she wasn't getting the rise that she wanted, and she moved on," Van-Brakle added.
The mission accomplished by a moment of calm, understanding and respect.
----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a News Tip
