North Hertfordshire College’s Public Services students took part in an interactive session presented by Dee Marr, the Hate Crime officer for North Hertfordshire, about Stephen Lawrence and the impact his murder has had on society and policing. The event formed part of Hertfordshire Constabulary’s work to mark Stephen Lawrence Day.
Stephen was murdered in a racist attack in south London in 1993, when he was just 18 years old. To celebrate his life and legacy, the Stephen Lawrence Foundation was formed alongside Stephen Lawrence Day (April 22). The aim of the Foundation is to inspire a more equal, inclusive society, and to foster opportunities for marginalised young people in the UK.
During the session at our Hitchin Campus, our Public Services learners were joined by Chief Constable Charlie Hall, Chief Inspector Hannah Treadwell, and Hate Crime Officer Dee Marr. The officers led a discussion about Stephen Lawrence’s legacy and the work that Hertfordshire Constabulary does in promoting inclusion and race in the force and the communities it serves.
Chief Inspector Treadwell commented: “It was great to be able to have this opportunity to speak to the students and hear their views and experiences around race and policing.
“The death of Stephen Lawrence has had huge ramifications for the way we police our Black communities, and we are still learning and understanding as we move forward. Young people are the future and we need their trust, support, and help to tackle racism in society.”
Dan Bateman, one of NHC’s Sports & Public Services tutors, told us: “It’s been a real privilege for us within the Public Services department to pay our respects to the legacy of Stephen Lawrence with this event.
“We are very grateful to Chief Constable Hall and his team for their time in meeting our students. Stephen’s murder happened so many years before the students were born, many of them weren’t familiar with the case. They have found learning about the case really interesting, particularly the impact it has had on our police and legal system.
“Today was another example of the fantastic relationship NHC has with our local police force and another great opportunity for our students to see the amazing work the police do in action.”
Thank you to Hertfordshire Constabulary for taking the time to speak to our students.
If you’re interested in starting your own career in the public services, check out North Hertfordshire College’s Public Services courses! With NHC, you can stay close to home and access amazing experiences to help you go far in your future career.