Policing in a More Perfect Union Program

Policing in a More Perfect Union is for new police officer recruits

Policing in a More Perfect Union  was created in partnership with Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey and the Philadelphia Police Department. The program is designed to give police officer recruits a historical understanding of the constitutional rights and restrictions that are defined in the Bill of Rights. Policing in a More Perfect Union also examines the history of policing in a democratic society, and provides a forum for new officers to discuss the importance of their role in protecting the rights of all citizens.

“This is much more effective than the conventional ‘lecture hall’ format of most trainings.” – Philadelphia Police Officer Recruit

“Maybe this can be a start to a more civically engaged community where the police understand the community better, and the community understands the police better.” – Philadelphia Police Officer Recruit

The program is a four-hour, immersive experience. Participants will:

  • Learn about the historical roots of current public attitudes toward police legitimacy through an introductory video by Commissioner Ramsey;
  • Analyze and discuss critical concepts like “justice” and “fairness” in facilitated conversations with fellow recruits, NCC staff and community members;
  • Explore the history and ideas behind the nation’s founding documents and the evolution of policing in the United States through an interactive tour of the museum’s exhibits;
  • Examine the relationship between law enforcement and individual civil rights through an in-gallery presentation on influential Supreme Court decisions and key moments in the Civil Rights Movement;
  • Receive a bound, pocket-sized copy of the U.S. Constitution;
  • Enjoy light, Philly-style refreshments.

Booking a Group:

Cost is $25 per recruit (no charge for trainers). Please fill out the form below or contact us at [email protected]. 

Sample Program Schedule:

  • 8 a.m.          Program introductions
  • 8:30 a.m.     Foundations of America: Focus on the Bill of Rights Tour
  • 9:30 a.m.     Justice and Fairness Dialogue
  • 10 a.m.        Supreme Court Case Study Review
  • 10:45 a.m.   Conversation with the Community
  • 11:30 a.m.    Freedom Rising theatrical presentation
  • 12 p.m.         Program ends

Download Policing in a More Perfect Union flyers:

We also have a syllabus on training high school students to participate in active listening dialogues. Download syllabus here.

Please note that Policing in a More Perfect Union is geared specifically toward new police officer recruits, but can be adapted to groups of in-service officers, training staff or command groups. Times and dates are determined by your group’s specific needs. To discuss options for your group, please complete and submit the form below. You will be contacted by a member of our team from [email protected].. Please note that Policing in a More Perfect Union is geared specifically toward new police officer recruits, but can be adapted to groups of in-service officers, training staff or command groups. Times and dates are determined by your group’s specific needs. To discuss options for your group, please complete and submit the form below. You will be contacted by a member of our team from [email protected].