Last week, the Minneapolis Police Department hosted a community event that was about as charged as a BBQ can get – without turning into an actual fire hazard. The Chief’s BBQ, which took place on Lake Street, provided locals with an opportunity to meet Chief O’Hara and witness firsthand the latest department initiatives, including an introduction to the new motorcycle unit. Even though the skies opened up a little, the rain did little to dampen the spirits of those who attended.
According to the Minneapolis Police Department’s Facebook post, the event wasn't just about the BBQ. It was a show and tell featuring divisions such as the Mounted Unit, Bomb Squad, K-9 Unit, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle team. These attractions provided a chance for engaging conversations between the officers and their neighbors. "Events like these are a chance for neighbors to meet Chief O’Hara -- plus members of our other divisions," the Minneapolis Police Department post read, highlighting the communal aspect of the gathering.
As the grills worked overtime, flipping burgers and turning dogs, the centerpiece of the event seemed to be the newest additions to the police fleet – four gleaming Harley-Davidsons now in service with the department's motorcycle unit. The sight of these machines was anticipated to stir a mix of admiration for the American manufacturing legacy and perhaps a renewed dialogue on policing's relationship with community mobility and visibility.
One notable snippet from the event's social media promotion was the promise of future BBQ dates, indicating that the police department sees these gatherings as more than just a one-off, but a recurring opportunity for community engagement. "Stay tuned to our social media for future BBQ dates. We can’t wait to see you at the next one!" the Minneapolis Police Department's post enthusiastically stated. This forecast of future feasts certainly plants the seed for ongoing relationships between Minneapolis law enforcement and the communities they serve – relationships that, like last week's meats, require careful tending to avoid getting burned.
It may be a small step in the grand scheme of civic engagement, but the Chief's BBQ seems to be a tender piece in the larger puzzle of community-police relations. And for those who missed the olfactory delights and the sounds of sizzling this past week, the Minneapolis Police Department's social media channels are the spots to watch for the next round of the Chief’s BBQ – because if there's anything that can bridge gaps, it's the universal language of grilled food and a side of policy talk.
