Chief of Police Empathizes with Muslim Community:
February 03, 2010
During the most recent Muslim Community Forum, MPAC Senior Advisor, Dr. Maher Hathout and Imam Abdul Kareem Hasan, co-facilitated a discussion between Muslim community members and the new Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, Charlie Beck. Hosted by the Omar ibn Al Khattab Foundation, Director Dafer Dakhil, welcomed the audience of over 200 hundred community members and law enforcement officials. Dakhil then introduced Deputy Chief Michael Downing who moderated law enforcement presentations.
Downing asked two Muslim members of LAPD to highlight their experiences with the department. The testimonials of Reserve Police Officer Omar Ricci and Chaplain Shaykh Qasi Asad both encouraged Muslims to join LAPD. Once Downing updated the forum attendees on current events, he introduced the new Los Angeles Chief of Police, Charlie Beck.
Chief Beck began his remarks by stating that he knows what it is like “to be painted with a broad brush because of the actions of a few folks”. The Chief affirmed Muslims as respected citizens who contribute to the mosaic that is Los Angeles. He underscored the importance of holding individuals who break the law accountable for their actions-- instead of a whole community. Beck then shared his goals for the department which included constitutional policing, crime reduction, keeping the community safe from terrorism (through the use of effective partnerships), maintaining the strength of the police department, and employee wellness. After his remarks, Dr. Maher Hathout and Imam Abdul Kareem Hassan moderated a question and answer session between the chief and the audience. Most questions focused on police accountability and protocol for officers who are racist against Muslims.
The forum concluded with dinner provided by the foundation and the opportunity for individuals to talk to the chief one-on-one.
--Aziza Hasan
Southern California Government Relations Director
