On Wednesday, November 14, 2007, York Regional Police, in partnership with the York Region Public and Catholic School Boards, will host a youth forum aimed at building bridges and breaking down barriers of communication between police and our community’s young people.

From 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., approximately 60 students from the York Region District School Board and the York Catholic District School Board will join York Regional Police officers in a relaxed and casual setting in the Canada Room at the Markham Civic Centre located at 101 Civic Centre Blvd in the Town of Markham.

Members of the media are invited as Chief Armand La Barge, Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Stouffville Mayor Wayne Emmerson greet the students with opening remarks, scheduled for 10:30 a.m.

The forum is part of a strategy designed to engage both youth and frontline police officers who work with youth in the community and in their schools. Through role-playing and open discussion, participants share their concerns and possible solutions to better communication between young people and police. The forum lays the foundation for better dialogue, understanding, cooperation and respect. The students are chosen by their respective schools and will address topics such as stereotyping, racial profiling, abuse of authority and protecting criminals.

Mr. Sam Cuda, Guidance Counsellor at Father McGivney Catholic High School in Markham, will facilitate the forum. The morning will be spent identifying issues of concern from the perspective of each group, while the afternoon session will focus on formulating solutions to those themes identified.

Should the media have any questions directly related to this youth forum, please feel free to contact Constable Todd Snooks at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7520, or by email at 1039@yrp.ca.

Youth forums across the region are ongoing. If you would like further information, contact the York Regional Police Community Services Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7907.