Civilian police oversight has become the focus of an important community conversation in Worcester—but what does civilian oversight entail? What models are already used in other communities, what authority can civilian oversight bodies have, and what makes them effective? Join us for a community teach-in exploring current police oversight, accountability, community trust, and public safety. Whether you support civilian oversight, oppose it, or simply want to better understand the issue, this session is designed to give community members the information they need to participate thoughtfully in the conversation.
William “Bil” Gardiner is a photographic artist and activist based in Worcester, MA. He is the owner of William Gardiner Photography. Bil attended Worcester Academy before heading off to Howard and Syracuse Universities. He spent two years as a Campus Police Officer at Worcester Polytechnic Institute before joining the Worcester Police Department for ten years, an experience that completely changed the way that he looks at law enforcement forever. Bullied the entire 10 years for his more “social worker” way of working with the public, Bil now spends much of his time educating folks about what he feels could be a new way of community policing.
Roberto Diaz is the current Executive Director of Worcester Interfaith, he has been working in the Worcester community since 1997, dedicating nearly 30 years to working with youth, families, and communities to create greater opportunities and advance racial and economic justice. In his tenure at Worcester Interfaith, he has led a multiracial, multifaith organization focused on developing resident leaders and building grassroots power among people of color and working-class families. His work includes community organizing, leadership development, coalition building, fundraising, youth development, workforce development, and nonprofit management. Before joining Worcester Interfaith, Roberto held leadership positions at the Worcester Community Action Council, the Worcester Youth Center, and CENTRO Inc. His work has included developing programs for youth and families, addressing youth violence and unemployment, building community partnerships, and helping residents become leaders in their communities. Roberto holds a Master’s degree in Community Development & Planning from Clark University and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services & Administration from Springfield College. He is bilingual in English and Spanish and has served on a number of community boards and initiatives throughout Worcester.
At the center of Roberto’s work is a simple belief: people most impacted by the issues facing their communities should have a voice, develop their own leadership, and have the power to create change.