For Immediate Release: February 19, 2021
Contact: media@colorofchange.org
COLOR OF CHANGE: MINNEAPOLIS VOTE TO INCREASE POLICE FUNDING IS NOT ONLY WILDLY HYPOCRITICAL, IT’S DANGEROUS
Erika Maye, Deputy Senior Director of Criminal Justice and Democracy Campaigns at Color Of Change, issued this statement following a Minneapolis City Council vote to spend $6.4 million to hire additional police officers:
“This Minneapolis City Council vote marks a disappointing step backwards for a city that was making such incredible progress toward reimagining public safety. Just months ago, the City Council voted to dismantle the Minneapolis Police Department and begin shifting critical resources toward Black communities, which have been disproportionately impacted by racist police violence. Now, however, the same body is throwing money at the police department to hire more officers, of all things. This move from Minneapolis council members who promised much-needed change is not only wildly hypocritical; it’s incredibly dangerous.
“The deaths of George Floyd, Jamar Clark, and countless other Black people serve as constant, painful reminders that police do not keep our communities safe. More police will only incite more violence and greater risks to Black lives. What we need are the vital support, resources, and services that allow our communities to thrive. By investing in resources like education, affordable housing, economic opportunity, and health care access, officials can address the needs that often lead to crime while protecting Black people and restoring Black communities.
“The people of Minneapolis have already embraced this new vision for public safety, and we are demanding that leaders make it a reality.”
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Color Of Change is the nation’s largest online racial justice organization. We help people respond effectively to injustice in the world around us. As a national online force driven by over 7 million members, we move decision-makers in corporations and governments to create a more human and less hostile world for Black people in America. Visit www.colorofchange.org
For Immediate Release: February 19, 2021
Contact: media@colorofchange.org