Police departments must work to change negative perceptions minorities often have about law enforcement and the criminal justice system. Such change can be effected by individual police officers when they alter the way in which they interact with communities they serve. The author notes that many black citizens and other minority group members feel different standards apply, causing tension between the black community and the police. He also points out that black police officers are sometimes viewed as traitors by other blacks in the community. Distinctions between white and minority police officers and their reactions to minority community members are discussed. Ways of improving relationships between minorities and police officers are suggested that focus on community-oriented policing, human relations training, the establishment of new goals, and the involvement of minority communities in law enforcement. 11 endnotes