By GREGORY HORNER, Staff Reporter.
In honor of Black History Month, Delta College has invited Lorenzo Pierson to address ongoing tension between community members and law enforcement. Pierson is a Delta graduate and a Saginaw native. As an author, filmmaker and community leader he has dedicated his life to improving the lives of Michigan residents.
On Friday Feb. 20, Delta’s Ricker Center will host the Black Men Matter seminar, a discussion aimed at race and police brutality in the country. The event starts at 6 p.m., and will feature Pierson and guests discussing issues that affect black Americans in Saginaw and the country.
“We’re not pointing fingers or throwing jabs,” said Pierson. “It’s about providing answers and solutions on how to move forward. The police need us and we definitely still need the police.”
The discussion will center on the nationwide conversation surrounding police violence against the black community. By teaching officers to understand black culture, and informing young African-Americans about the proper way to deal with police, Pierson believes he can improve the situation one community at a time.
“We look at the events that have unfolded across the country; some people question the officer and others question the actions of the victim,” he said. “We’ve decided to come together and try to improve the relationship between law enforcement and minority communities.”
Pierson says his childhood was unique; born in Saginaw’s east side he was raised by his single mother in the inner city and never met his father. Gangs, drugs, police and violence were a common part of his life growing up.
“Some people in Saginaw grow up to be the most amazing individuals, and some people have grown up who are no longer with us today.”
Pierson has been working in the Saginaw community for over 20 years. He is currently the CEO of Youth Empowerment Solutions, a non-profit organization dedicated to youth participation and awareness. YES is currently involved in Gentleman of Quality and Women of Elegance – programs devoted to improving the education and opportunities for young men and women In Middle and High School.
He’s also active in Black Lives Matter; a movement providing solutions and resources to the problems minorities face by improving education, mentoring youth and encouraging young people to become more involved in local communities.
Several representatives will aid Pierson in the discussion. Some leaders involved in the seminar include Dr. Marvin T. Smith, the Pastor of Mt. Olive Church and Sgt. Reginald Williams from the Saginaw City Police. Other members include: Brian Pruitt from the Power of Dad, Pastor Taurus Simpson of Daniels Den and former state officer Lieut. Galvann Smith.
“They are very influential and well respected men in our community,” said Pierson. “The panel will provide experience and sound advice on how to deal with the issues in our community.”
