Books & Badges: Conversations That Matter

Books & Badges: Conversations That Matter

Books & Badges: Conversations That Matter is a community reading and discussion series designed to bring residents, teens, and law enforcement together through thoughtful conversation, shared learning, and the power of books.

Open to ages 15 and up, the series moves beyond casual introductions and creates space for deeper conversations about leadership, trust, identity, communication, public service, belonging, and community. Each gathering uses reading as a starting point, giving participants common ideas and stories to reflect on before entering discussions that may challenge perspectives, encourage listening, and build greater understanding.

Rather than expecting everyone to agree, Books & Badges encourages participants to come with curiosity. Through guided conversations, community members and police leadership will have an opportunity to exchange perspectives, ask meaningful questions, and explore what it takes to strengthen relationships across differences.

Recommended Reading

Participants are encouraged to explore the following featured selections:

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

A reflection on purpose, leadership, and the values that inspire individuals and organizations to serve others.

Birmingham’s First Black in Blue by Leroy Stover

A powerful first-person account exploring race, policing, perseverance, leadership, and institutional change through the experiences of Birmingham’s first Black police officer.

Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler, and Emily Gregory

A practical guide to communicating when opinions differ, emotions are strong, and the conversation matters.

These recommended titles will be available through Jersey City Free Public Library locations, giving community members the opportunity to read, reflect, and prepare before attending a Books & Badges conversation.

You do not need to be an expert, agree with every idea in the books, or have all the answers to participate. Come ready to read, listen, share your perspective, and engage respectfully with your neighbors and local law enforcement.

Because stronger communities are not built through one conversation. They are built when we continue showing up, learning from one another, and making room for conversations that matter.