AUSTIN, Texas — In an effort to strengthen community relations, the Austin Police Department participated in the "I GOT YOU APD vs The Hood Dodgeball game" on Wednesday, hosted by Jump On It (JOI) Community Outreach.
The event intended to focus on bridging the gap between Austin youth and law enforcement, organizers said.
"The ball goes both ways, we have to co-exist," said NOOK Turner, a musician who helped start JOI. "So, where the community or the hood may be frustrated about what we feel about police and how we're treated and different things like that, APD may feel a different way as well. So, we need to have a two-way conversation."
"I mean, growing up in this community in East Austin APD wasn't always the best look," said Derwin Mayberry, one of the players for 'The Hood'. "Being able to recognize that face, sometimes it's not knowing that person in that squad car, or the police officer not knowing that person who's standing out in the street."
JOI featured many activities such as:
- Jump On It University, which is designed with resources and workshops for youth and adults to learn about financial literacy.
- The Vendor Market, where attendees can enjoy great food from local area food trucks.
- The Game Zone features exciting rides and interactive games, go-carts and rides for all ages.
- The Adult Zone gives adults an area where they can mingle, relax, and enjoy adult beverages.
- The Entertainment Zone, which features performances by national and local artists.
“We are looking forward to this opportunity to engage in conversation with the department and community,” APD Chief Brian Manley said.
A community kickball game was scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and the APD vs. The Hood dodgeball game was slated from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. at the Travis County Expo Center. Organizers encouraged the public to donate $5 to attend the games.
After the game, officers and members of the community sat down and talked about things they can do to make the relationship better. Also, due to negative attention received in regards to the name 'APD vs The Hood,' organizers said they will change it for the 2019 game.
