STATEMENT FROM COLOR OF CHANGE: Minneapolis‘ Commitment to Disband Police A Historic Moment for Our Country
Rashad Robinson, President of Color Of Change, the nation’s largest online racial justice organization, issued the following statement in response to the announcement from the Minneapolis City Council that they plan to pursue a vote to significantly de-fund the Minneapolis Police Department:
“Policing is a violent institution that must end. We imagine a country where there is enough money to educate our children, care for our sick and feed those who are financially unstable. Defunding the police allows for this vision.
“Today’s announcement of a vote to disband the Minneapolis Police Department is a historic moment, brought about by the tireless activism of thousands of protesters who have put their lives on the line for nearly two weeks. This is the power of black activism.
“Minneapolis is taking an extraordinary step in the healing process, and taking action to bring forth a new vision for community safety and investment in black communities. After decades of failed promises, we know that “reform” is not enough. The murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and countless others have shown us that.
“This is not a time for tweaking or tinkering – it’s time to start over. Minneapolis has taken the first step towards remaking public safety in a way that protects black lives and invests in black and brown communities. We hope cities across the country follow.
“The road will not be easy and there will need to be systems built to ensure both safety and justice. But we support this plan and stand with the people of Minneapolis. May Minneapolis inspire the nation.”
Rashad Robinson and other Color Of Change spokespeople are available for comment.
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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 1.7 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.