Proving once again that all are welcome in Oak Creek, the City hosted visitors from eight African countries in mid-May for a forum on community policing.

The group is part of the International Visitor Leadership Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. The visitors came from Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Togo, and Uganda. 

The discussion, led by Mayor Dan Bukiewicz, Police Chief David Stecker, and Captain Andrew Thorne, focused on public safety and how Oak Creek is forward-thinking and proactive.

They also talked about intergovernmental collaboration with law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and national levels as well as efforts to make Oak Creek more inclusive and welcoming.

To illustrate that fact, Mayor Bukiewicz highlighted CAFE, an annual Celebration of Culture held in Drexel Town Square. The community event brings people from a variety of cultures and backgrounds together to share their traditions, including food, art, and entertainment. This year’s CAFE Celebration will also feature an International Bazaar and will be held on September 13, 2025.  

https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/resident/events/cafe-a-celebration-of-culture

The visitors also wanted to know more about police and community relations. Chief Stecker used that opportunity to talk about the City of Oak Creek’s annual National Night Out event, which will be held this year on August 5, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Oak Creek High School near Knights Stadium. The free family-friendly evening is designed to strengthen the department’s relationship with the community through interactive exhibits and hands-on demonstrations.

https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/resident/events/national-night-out

In addition, the chief detailed efforts to bring back the Citizens’ Academy to engage and educate the public. Chief Stecker also said the participants were in awe of the Women’s Self-defense class, which has been offered in Oak Creek for over 25 years.

https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/government/departments/police/community-resources

After the forum wrapped up, the eight visitors had a chance to talk to other city leaders who were at the event, including Alderpersons Alicia Haase, Greg Loreck, and City Clerk Catherine Roeske. 

The International Visitor Leadership Program allows participants to spend a month in the United States and helps them establish long-term relationships with local government officials. 

Everyone who participated in the event said it was a great opportunity to showcase all the good work being done in Oak Creek. 

For media inquiries, please contact:
Marcia Wayer
Director of Marketing & PR
City of Oak Creek
Phone: 414-766-7056
Email: mwayer@oakcreekwi.gov