Summary
Matthew Solomon, a filmmaker and conflict resolution expert, discusses his documentary ‘Reimagining Safety’ and the need for alternative approaches to public safety. Solomon shares his personal experiences growing up in a diverse community and witnessing the differential treatment of his friends by the police. He explains how his background in sociology and anthropology, as well as the events of the Rodney King beating and the LA riots, shaped his passion for social justice. Solomon highlights the importance of holistic public safety, which includes access to resources, mental health support, and community engagement. He also emphasizes the need to address the proliferation of firearms and the challenges of reforming the criminal justice system in the United States. Solomon discusses the role of mental health care and social services in public safety and calls for increased funding and resources in these areas. He encourages individuals to get involved in their communities and build connections with others as a way to promote public safety.

Takeaways
– Holistic public safety includes access to resources, mental health support, and community engagement.
– The proliferation of firearms complicates public safety efforts.
– Reforming the criminal justice system requires addressing systemic issues and investing in mental health care and social services.
– Building community connections and getting involved in local initiatives can contribute to public safety.

Notable Sound Bites
– “When we care about each other, we do things differently, and it actually produces safety as a result.”
– “There’s a lot of work to do, and it’s whether or not we’re gonna commit to it. And if we don’t commit to it, the violence is gonna perpetuate.”
– “COVID has put us in a place where it’s more crucial than ever that we have the resources to address our collective and individual trauma.”

Key Segments
Understanding Public Safety
Perspectives from the Documentary
Challenges of Reforming the Criminal Justice System
National vs. Local Approaches to Public Safety
The Role of Mental Health Care in Public Safety
Addressing Trauma and Building Community
Individual Actions for Public Safety

To learn more about Matthew Solomon, his film and his work:

This interview is just a conversation starter, I invite you to join in and share this episode with your personal and professional network. Listen to the interview, then give me your perspective. You can also find the latest show preview clips on my YouTube Channel. I encourage you to subscribe to the channel, share the clips and leave your comments.

Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on X @BrianJMatos or find Brian on your favorite social media platform.