SJC Exchange Library

When racial tensions rose to a tipping point in Stratford, Conn. following the arrest of two African Americans – a teenager and a town councilman, the city used this incident as a springboard to improve community-police relations and to address other issues related to racial equity.

To launch community-wide dialogue and action on racism, they formed “Citizens Addressing Racial Equity” (C.A.R.E.). Initiated by a Democratic mayor, C.A.R.E. transcends political identification, and now receives the support of the new Republican mayor. “C.A.R.E. serves an important purpose, uniting our town across racial and economic lines in pursuit of building a better community,” says Mayor John Harkins. “They have my full support.”