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SFPD's Operation Genesis youth trip to Ghana draws praise from participants and officials
Summary
Police-sponsored Operation Genesis took 12 students to Ghana this year; students and department leaders described the trip as transformative and announced follow-up fundraising and school support plans.
San Francisco Police Department officers and students described Operation Genesis, the department's youth cultural-exchange program to Ghana, as a developmental success during the commission meeting on April 6.
Officer Jason Johnson said the program has grown each year 2d from seven students in the first year to 12 this year 2d and that the department created a waiting list because of strong interest. Students who participated spoke about visiting slave forts and schools in Ghana and said the trip broadened their perspective.
Destiny Kato said, "Ghana was a really life changing experience... I really got to learn about where we come from," while Mikael described a "sacred" visit to the slave baths and said the trip had lasting emotional and educational impact. JJ (Officer Johnson) told the commission that the selection process included essays, interviews and an eight-week pre-departure program, and that 27 kids have participated since the program began.
Chief Sir and commissioners praised the initiative as a model for community engagement that can complement accountability and reform efforts by creating positive, sustained relationships between youth and officers.
Ending: Commissioner comments and chief remarks highlighted Operation Genesis as an example of partnership that builds community trust. The commission encouraged continued reporting and community outreach tied to the program.
