A forum about the use of force by police and the influence of the media will be hosted from 5:30-8 p.m. Tuesday at Circle of Friends, 121 107th Ave. N.E. The series focuses on building positive community relations by bringing people together to share information and perspectives.

The event is free and open to everyone.

The forum will feature speakers Chief Linda Pillo, Bellevue Police Department and John Hamer, President of the Washington News Council, followed by small group discussions.

Discussion topics will include legal rights and responsibilities of police officers and citizens, and how use of force by police is administered. The program will also explore how the media shapes society’s views about interaction between law enforcement and the public.

Several Bellevue Police officers and Bellevue Police Diversity Focus Group members will be at hand to assist in discussions.

The forum is sponsored by the City of Bellevue Parks & Community Services Cultural Diversity Program as part of a “Conversations about Race and Culture Series.”

Interested members of the general public, media, law enforcement and legal profession are especially encouraged to attend.

More information is available by calling call 425-452-7886 or email khenry@bellevuewa.gov.