A panel of law enforcement and Western Connecticut State University student leaders are taking part in a discussion today about how citizens and police can work together.  The “Race, Community, Policing and YOU — A Conversation to Make a Difference,” event is about protecting the liberties and lives of both civilians and law enforcement officers whose job it is to safeguard the public.

Participants include Danbury Police Chief Patrick Ridenhour; Redding Police Chief Douglas Fuchs, who is also a WestConn instructor; State Police spokeswoman Trooper Kelly Grant; WestConn Police Chief Roger Connor; and student representatives.

University spokesman Paul Steinmetz says the discussion will be the first of several events to engage students, faculty, and the community in creating understanding about the approach police take toward their job and the experiences of residents, particularly students, who interact with law enforcement.

University student organizations such as the Black Student Union, the Latin American Student Organization, the office of Multicultural Affairs & Affirmative Action Programs and others are coordinating the event.

The panel discussion is at 11am in the ball room of the Westside campus center in Danbury.  The event is free and open to the public.