Statement from the Supervisor
In every city the people of this country are protesting peacefully in the streets, and for good reason. Though of course there are some looking to take advantage of this moment for unlawful purposes, the vast majority have a righteous cause. They are responding to real problems that affect their daily lives in tragic ways, calling out for justice for George Floyd and many other African Americans who have been killed by police, and demanding the right to feel safe from law enforcement in their own community.
Today, as a first step, I endorse President Obama’s Pledge to address Police Use of Force (https://www.obama.org/mayor-pledge/). I am committing to review local law enforcement use of force policies, engage in a community input process to hear the communities firsthand experiences with law enforcement, and to push to change local use of force policies. While I cannot unilaterally change these policies as a County Supervisor, I can commit to advocate for needed reforms.
I have grappled with issues of public safety in Oakland and Alameda County for the entirety of my career in public service and I have always genuinely sought to make decisions that I thought were the best for my constituents. I have not made a secret of my support for law enforcement and I have sided with them during contentious debates.
However, it is clear that the time has come for real, fundamental reform.
I have taken many tough stances and made unpopular votes in my career. I do not shy away from controversy and I do not simply sway with the winds of public opinion. I am ready to act because the times demand it and my heart is with the young people in the street calling out for the government to do better. Quite simply, they are right and we must act to honor their cries for justice.
This is not a time for more studies or researching the problem, but for action and votes for change. Activists are calling for many specific, proven reforms that can be put into place. I want to hear from you on what we need to do. We will be sitting at the same table: where I will hear the comments of advocates and community groups. We need to build a system of public safety that reflects the humanity of our community and values Black life. Today’s commitment is not the end, this process is continuing, and I am seeking more ways to bring about needed police reform. I look forward to hearing from you.
District4@acgov.org
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