Florida Faith Center Hosts Discussion on Police, Race Relations in Hopes of Healing

A member of Congress, law enforcement, pastors, and community members in Florida gathered together to address concerns about police and race relations in hopes that the dialogue would bring healing.  

Faith Center Bishop Henry Fernandez held a "Hope and Healing" town hall meeting to keep the conversation open between officers and the community. 

More than 500 people attended the event to hear from the 18-member panel that included U.S. Rep Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Broward Mayor Marty Kiar and Sunrise Police Chief John Brooks.

"We have had explosive things happening in Ferguson, in Baltimore, and  in so many communities around the country...that tension existed for our county, but has not yet reached the surface," said Wasserman Schultz. "We wanted to make sure to bring our law enforcement, our electives, and our community leadership together to stat to have a dialogue. 

Fernandez told the Sun Sentinel that he believes the church plays an integral role in resolving the issue. 

"There is no way there can be a peaceful resolution to the issue without the faith community," he said. 

The group came together and not only prayed, but answered tough questions like: can you call 911 on an officer?

"That's probably not a good idea," Attorney George Odom told the group. "The best thing you can do is comply, comply and comply. And if all else fails, comply."

Police chiefs from several cities including Fort Lauderdale, Davies, and Wilton Manor attended the meeting. 

"I think the police chiefs and the sheriff really care about the lack of trust," Broward State Attorney Mike Satz said.

Although many at the gathering considered the town hall meeting rare, Dania Beach resident Anita Jackson said she hopes it will lead to more love and understanding.

"We need some healing," she said. "We need some conversation, to get some dialogue going."