News Updates
+ Five things you need to know about the Community Commitment - Louisville's Consent Decree
 1. What happened?
The U.S. Department of Justice moved to dismiss its lawsuit against Louisville Metro Government and LMPD with prejudice, permanently closing the case. This means the negotiated consent decree announced in December of 2024 will not become effective.
2. How are we moving forward?
- Louisville Metro Government and LMPD are committed to reform and improvements
- Community Commitment – Louisville Consent Decree
- An RFP will be issued once the federal judge enters the final ruling, requesting proposals from qualified candidates interested in serving as an independent monitor
- Once selected, a contract will be issued that is renewable annually for up to five years
3. What is the Community Commitment – Louisville’s Consent Decree:
- An agreement between Metro Government, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the citizens of Louisville
- Includes the same goals and objectives of the original decree
- Includes provisions for an independent monitor and a process community input
- Puts in place accountability and transparency measures to continue building trust and improving public safety
- Once in place, LMPD and independent monitor will provide regular reports to new Community Safety Commission
4. How can the community be involved?
- We want to hear from Louisville residents about qualities they’d like to see in an independent monitor
- Two community engagement sessions will be held to find out what qualities people would like to see in an independent monitor
- An online survey will also be posted to ensure all voices are heard
- A third session will take place for the community to meet the two finalists and provide feedback
- Join the Community Safety Commission – details on that process will be shared soon
5. What has already been done?
Over the last two years, LMPD has:
- Revised more that 260 policies, updated its procedures, and restructured the department’s organization, leadership, and personnel
- Collected the data needed to make good decisions and measure whether it is meeting its goals
- Implemented a new focus on de-escalation and expanded the deflection program to ensure more effective interventions for people in crisis
- Officers are receiving more training and better care through Summit Wellness Center
+ Showcase Your Business at WorldFest 2025
Local food and craft vendors are invited to participate in the 23rd Annual WorldFest, Louisville’s premier international festival, taking place over Labor Day weekend. Attracting more than 150,000 attendees over four days, WorldFest offers an exceptional opportunity for local businesses to showcase their cuisine and crafts to a diverse and enthusiastic audience. The festival celebrates the many cultures that call Louisville home, featuring live entertainment on multiple stages, the vibrant Parade of Cultures, the Global Village, and more.
Food vendors will have the opportunity to bring their own cooking equipment—provided it meets health code requirements—and should be prepared for fast-paced service to accommodate the large crowds each day. WorldFest is free and open to all ages, making it one of the city’s most popular and inclusive events.
For more information or to express interest in participating, please contact Dorian at dorian@jwagnergroup.com.
+ Now Accepting Applications for “She Serves” – A Leadership Experience for Women
 The Louisville Metro Police Department is launching “She Serves,” a free 7-week leadership and engagement program designed to empower women and strengthen connections between community members and law enforcement. Open to women ages 20 and up, the program invites participants of all backgrounds — no law enforcement experience required — to explore public service, leadership, and the inner workings of LMPD.
Participants will engage in a range of immersive activities, including ride-alongs with officers, a self-defense workshop, behind-the-scenes tours of specialized units and facilities like MetroSafe and the LMPD Wellness Center, and opportunities to build lasting connections with fellow changemakers.
Sessions will be held one evening per week from 6–9 PM at the LMPD Training Academy. Space is limited to 35 participants.
Whether a student, professional, advocate, or simply curious, “She Serves” offers a unique chance to gain insight, build community, and grow as a leader. Apply today and help shape the future — one voice at a time.
+ Global Louisville Directory: Find Services in Your Language
The Global Louisville Directory is a free, interactive tool designed to help our international community easily find services and resources available in their own languages.
It also highlights and promotes businesses owned by foreign-born residents, celebrating the vibrant diversity that enriches our city. With multilingual navigation options, this tool makes it easier than ever to connect with your community in the language you speak!
+ Join us as a volunteer with the Office for Immigrant Affairs!
Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting our events and programs. You’ll have the opportunity to:
Connect with Organizations and Businesses: Support partnerships across Louisville that uplift immigrants and refugees, and help strengthen our city’s diverse landscape.
Meet People from Around the Globe: Be a welcoming face and a bridge for our international neighbors as they integrate and thrive within our vibrant city.
Learn & Support: Gain hands-on experience working with organizations dedicated to empowering immigrants and helping them succeed.
+Glow and Grow: Summer Reading & Cultural Pass 2025 Kickoff!
The Louisville Free Public Library invites community members of all ages, from newborns to 12th-grade students, to kick off Summer Reading and Cultural Pass 2025 on Saturday, May 31, at the Main Library (301 York Street). Readers who participate this summer will earn a mysterious glow-in-the-dark backpack, enjoy attraction passes, and indulge in sweet treats provided by local partners. Be sure to pick up your Summer Program Guide at any library branch and start planning a season of fun, discovery, and reading!
+ News You Can Use
Upcoming Events
+ Honoring AAPI Culture: Polynesian Festival in Central Park
Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of vibrant culture, music, and community at the Polynesian Festival on Saturday, May 31, from 1–5 PM at the Central Park Amphitheater (1340 S 4th Street). This free, family-friendly event brings the rich traditions of the Pacific Islands to the heart of Louisville, celebrating the diverse and dynamic heritage of Polynesian communities.
Experience the beauty of traditional dance performances, live island music, and cultural showcases that highlight the spirit of aloha. Savor delicious Polynesian food and enjoy activities for all ages in a joyful, welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss this exciting celebration of culture, connection, and community!
+ Celebrate Culture and Community at the Louisville Africa Day Festival
You are invited to experience the richness, resilience, and rhythm of African cultures at the upcoming Louisville Africa Day Festival. This vibrant celebration honors the spirit of Africa through music, dance, art, and food.
You will enjoy an exciting lineup of Afrobeat DJs, cultural performances, African fashion shows, traditional face painting, and authentic cuisine. The festival is a tribute to the strength, beauty, and enduring legacy of African people and their stories of triumph.
The event takes place on Saturday, May 31st, from 5 PM to 11 PM at Fourth Street Live!
Everyone is welcome to join in this joyful celebration of heritage and unity.
+ Save the Date: La Casita’s Summer Brunch 2025!
La Casita Center is thrilled to announce the return of its beloved Summer Brunch, happening on Sunday, June 1, 2025! Guests can look forward to a joyful celebration filled with community, culture, and connection. In true La Casita fashion, the event will feature a delicious buffet of Latin-inspired dishes, vibrant live music from talented local musicians, and spirited dance performances by the Semillitas Latinas.
Mark your calendars and get your tickets today!
Image of the Week
Rising Together, A Celebration of Achievement
Congratulations, graduates! Your hard work, resilience, and dedication have led you to this incredible achievement, and it is just the beginning. As you step into the next chapter, carry the courage to dream boldly, the wisdom to lead with compassion, and the determination to shape a better world.
We also celebrate the parents, teachers, mentors, and all those who stepped in with guidance, love, and support along the way. Your encouragement helped make this moment possible.
Policy Updates
+ Immigration Policy Tracker
The Immigration Policy Tracking project keeps up with federal agencies policy memos, executive action, and internal communication. Be sure to keep up with new communications here: Immigration Policy Tracking Project
+ Sign up to receive emergency alerts in your language
Sign up to receive emergency alerts on your cell phone!
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