Residents, police officials and local leaders gathered Friday for a forum that highlights the importance of having a positive relationship between law enforcement and the community.

The forum comes in the wake of the shooting of Sean Bell, who was killed by police the day before his wedding. One resident who attended the forum at the Amadou Diallo Medical Center says the rift between police and the Bronx community runs deep.

Panelists called for a balanced perspective, a viewpoint they say is difficult for those who feel they have been treated differently because of their skin color. Recommendations made by the panelists will be shared with the NYPD, the mayor's office and other city groups.