Straus Institute Awarded JAMS Foundation Grant

In July 2021 the Straus Institute was awarded a grant of $450,000 by the JAMS Foundation in support of its planned two-year training and engagement program to address the relationship between the Los Angeles community and law enforcement. The institute has trained more than

900 law enforcement personnel in workplace conflict resolution strategies to date.

“We see this initiative as a pivotal opportunity to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and Los Angeles community members. We are grateful to have the support of the JAMS Foundation as we look to provide our community with tools to resolve conflict, share experiences and encourage empathy for one another,” said professor Sukhsimranjit Singh.

The program will facilitate positive engagement between police officers and community members to dispel negative perceptions and will provide the groups with unique conflict resolution skills so that interactions between them may begin from a foundation of respect.

“We think the program provides an innovative approach that leverages ADR principles to navigate the nuances of Los Angeles’ complex history with law enforcement” said David Brandon, JAMS Foundation managing director.

In June, the institute welcomed a delegation from the Korean National Police Agency to exchange ideas and explore collaboration. MDR student and LAPD Captain Andrew Neiman (pictured below), shared his experience with the international officials, stating, “Police training is very traditional, which can be good, but the training that I’ve received at Straus has been great. The skills learned to deescalate high-tension situations has benefitted law enforcement relations within the LA community.”