International students are invited to submit questions and ideas for upcoming meetings designed to increase their understanding of U.S. law enforcement policies and practices.
Among the many benefits of studying abroad is experiencing contrasts among countries, whether they involve higher education systems, forms of government or even simple social interactions.
Yet in some situations, lack of knowledge of another place can become dangerous; in the case of U.S. travelers, for example, the U.S. Department of State has a website that provides country-specific guidance regarding topics ranging from health and transportation to local laws, safety and “special circumstances.”
In the wake of the tragic death of law student Saif Nasser Mubarak Ali Alameri this month, some have requested additional information about common mores when interacting with law enforcement. For instance, the standard when pulled over for a traffic stop in another country might be for the driver to show respect by getting out of the vehicle. Yet in the U.S., officers expect drivers to remain within their vehicles.
The university’s Center for International Affairs and Division of Public Safety already had been planning sessions for international students regarding law enforcement, but now have accelerated their timing to early next semester. Leaders of the two organizations not only want to provide information, but also learn more from students about their experiences in their home countries—and ways to enhance interactions among campus officers and these students.
The Daily will provide additional information about the meetings once they are scheduled. For now, organizers ask that international students submit questions or ideas regarding specific topics they would like to see included. By securing this insight early, those planning the events hope to make them as relevant and useful as possible.
To submit ideas, visit cwrumc.wufoo.com/forms/international-student-questions/.