Join Clarence Vaughn, III, for a discussion of The Black and the Blue: A Cop Reveals the Crimes, Racism, and Injustice in America's Law Enforcement by Matthew Horace, Wednesday, February 27, noon–1:00 in the East Tennessee History Center auditorium at 601 South Gay Street.

The Black and the Blue is described by reviewers as a brilliantly researched examination of policing. Authors Matthew Horace and Ron Harris posit that many of today's police tactics are built upon decades of toxic internal policies and the post-civil rights era War on Drugs. The author started his career in local policing and eventually ascended to the Department of Justice’s Senior Executive Service. After a personal encounter with racial profiling by a white officer, Horace sought to understand the very system he represented.

"Horace provides a riveting and portentous view from differing perspectives regarding community engagement with law enforcement," Vaughn said. "The Black and the Blue sheds light on the importance of maintaining certain key principles of the civil rights movement and transitioning those principles into a human rights movement, with a concentrated emphasis for all humankind to be treated equally and fairly."

Vaughn is Executive Director of the Police Advisory and Review Committee for the City of Knoxville, where he ensures that citizens have a voice in police matters. He is also a member of the National Association of Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement focused on improving relationships between law enforcement and citizens. Recognized by Knoxville Business Journal as a “40 under 40” honoree, Vaughn’s passion for service and philanthropic activities motivate him to serve in leadership roles in citizen academies at the federal and local level.

Books Sandwiched In is made possible by the generous support of the Friends of Knox County Public Library. Bring a sandwich or pick up something at a downtown restaurant. Drinks will be available for 50 cents.