For Immediate Release: October 8, 2020
Media contact: media@colorofchange.org
Color Of Change Responds to “COPS” Resuming Production
NATIONWIDE — In response to Langley Productions’ decision to resume filming for the television show “COPS” after it was cancelled by Paramount Network in June, Color Of Change President Rashad Robinson issued the following statement:
“After a years-long effort to get “COPS” removed from television, we were pleased to see Paramount Network and A&E listen to our demands to stop airing shows like “COPS” and “Live PD,” which contribute to unrealistic and dangerous depictions of policing. Now, months after its cancellation, Langley Productions has resumed the production of new “COPS” episodes to air in international territories — a slap in the face to Black people who face life and death consequences from the violent policing tactics glorified on “COPS.” Whether the show airs in the U.S. or not, Langley Productions has made it clear they care more about profit than they do about Black lives. The entertainment industry has a legacy of propping up police departments and painting false narratives of race, crime and justice that promote systemic racism.
Earlier this year, Color Of Change released a crime television report titled “Normalizing Injustice” that highlights the many ways Hollywood has misshapen our country’s understanding of policing. We also launched an initiative with Michael B. Jordan called #ChangeHollywood that lays out a roadmap with tangible actions Hollywood can take to support racial justice efforts across the industry, including how to divest from policing and invest in communities. Shows like “COPS” threaten to undo the progress the entertainment industry has brought forth. Its history of portraying excessive force and overpolicing make the show a public relations arm for law enforcement, rather than an accurate portrayal of what happens between Black communities and real police departments in this country. We condemn Langley Productions’ decision, and will continue to leverage our seven million members to demand they put an end to “COPS” and other similarly harmful shows once and for all.”
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About Color Of Change:
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 government to create a more human and less hostile world for Black people in America. Visit www.colorofchange.org.