Harriet Tubman Center for Justice & Peace, Inc., “Getting to Know You, aka GTKY 2.021,” 2nd annual event, held on June 25, 2021, private residence, Auburn, NY. Photo credit: Lisa Brennan (c) 2021
The Harriet Tubman Center for Justice and Peace hosted its 2nd annual event that brought together law enforcement and social justice advocates. Initiated in August 2020, this local gathering enabled two community groups, who are nationally perceived to be at odds on policing issues, to get to know each other on a personal level not burdened by uniform, job position, or media representation that all too often presents a one-dimensional picture of either group. At its core, this strategic community initiative is platformed on emboldening the concept of one shared community where all residents are valued; treated equitably with respect even when there are differences of opinion, and not by artificial perceptions of worth due to career choice.
Chief Shawn Butler, Auburn Police Department, bill berry, jr., HTCJP chair, Sheriff Brian Schenck, Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office, GTKY 2.021, June 25, 2021
The 2021, post Covid-19 event, was hosted at the home of Jack Hardy, chair of the Auburn Civil Service Commission and a member of the HTCJP, as well as other local boards. This year, approximately 32 individuals (almost double the number from the initial year) convened for an afternoon of relaxed and fun conversations, grilled burgers and hot dogs, fresh homemade salads, and beverages.
On a Friday that was sunny with mild winds, this year’s gathering was situated on an expansive backyard. The participants easily chatted with folks that they did not know for 10 minute intervals and then moved on to another person who was not known. As the event progressed, participants pleasantly gathered into small groups; sitting on lawn chairs in the shade for more relaxed conversation; sharing life stories, and simply, getting to know one another on a personal level.
To expand the group, last year’s participants were asked to invite another person to the 2021 event to foster a grass roots progression of getting more people involved in this initiative. And that strategic process will also shape the 2022 event. Held on the last Friday of June for two hours, the HTCJP is planning its third event for next year and expects to increase the participant size to 60 folks with a growing number growing each successive year.
““Thanks so much for bringing this group of devoted community members together today. Everything about the event was excellent and inspiring. I enjoyed myself and met many new people. As I reflect on today and the future of Auburn I reminded myself of the importance of these things.
- Our lives are very interconnected as is our overall well being
- Everything rises and falls on our collective leadership
- We are in this together and we need each other to survive
- Our collective commitment to a safe, just and equitable community helps Auburn continue being great.””
“Very well done, once again....”
Special Thank You to Jack Hardy, for his master chef skills at the grill! The burgers and dogs were off the hook!