Black Officer’s Story Anchors Pasadena Event on Police Reform and Oversight

A new documentary screening seeks to spark conversation about police reform by exploring the experiences of Black police officers striving for change from inside law enforcement.

The event aims to deepen public understanding of racial justice and systemic challenges in policing, engaging the community through film and a panel discussion.

“I want to tell my story because of my admiration for my dad and our love of law enforcement,” said Officer Nakia McConnell, whose career and advocacy form the heart of the film.

“I could not sit idly by as systemic racism vilifies my people,” McConnell said, revealing his commitment to both his profession and meaningful reform.

The screening, scheduled for Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at the Flintridge Center, 236 W. Mountain St. in Pasadena, is part of the ‘Let’s Talk, Let’s Listen’ Community Series organized by POP! Pasadenans Organizing for Progress.

The “54 and Counting” documentary, produced by We Shall See Entertainment in 2021, follows McConnell’s journey to follow his father into law enforcement and his goal to change the system. The film also provides insight into the complexities facing Black police officers in New Jersey as McConnell defends his profession while advocating for reform.

A panel discussion titled “How Far Have We Come?” will follow the film, inviting audience questions.

McConnell will join three panelists: Selina Ho, vice chair of the Pasadena Police Oversight Commission; former Pasadena Police Department Deputy Chief Darryl Qualls; and Jesus Cuevas, a PCC CORE Scholar.

“I want to encourage other Black and white officers to speak out against injustice,” McConnell said. Organizers hope the documentary and panel will inspire open dialogue and collective action, highlighting the roles of oversight and community partnerships in advancing reforms.

The event is presented by POP! Pasadenans Organizing for Progress and the NAACP Pasadena Branch, in collaboration with We Shall See Entertainment.

Oct. 22, 7 p.m. Flintridge Center, 236 W. Mountain St., Pasadena. Free. For more call (626) 449-0839 or visit  pop@pasadena.org.