John, I wish my first message to you as LEAP's executive director could be under better circumstances, but what we witnessed yesterday in our nation's capital was shocking, and I'm sure you feel the same way I do: it needs to be addressed. Policing is a profound responsibility. It is not - or should not be - beholden to or a reflection of a political ideology. It is not - or should not be - partisan. It must be in service to the people if we are to live up to the oath we took. Our country is so divided, it can be hard to imagine a way out. How do we find a clear path to common ground? It starts with learning from our troubled history and righting the wrongs that have permeated our justice system for far too long. Policing in America is fractured. In order to fix it, we need to understand what went wrong, why our communities don't trust us, and what we can do to get on the same side. We do share common ground: we all want to be a part of communities that are safe and thriving. To put ourselves on that path, law enforcement must acknowledge the necessity of building a new system. That system must have a foundation based in the needs of the community, as expressed by all stakeholders. It must reject hatred, racism, and divisive rhetoric. And as we create that system and put it into practice, we must do so with the understanding that there will always be room to learn, adjust, change, grow, and listen. We, as public servants, have a unique opportunity here. Right now, police can shift the course of this country in a deeply resonant way that will echo throughout the justice system. We can do that by standing with our communities, pledging our commitment to true justice and equity, and advocating for a better way forward, offering real solutions to this ongoing crisis. The longer we wait to get on the same side, the more devastating the damage will be. Law enforcement must meet this moment. LEAP stands against terrorism, violence, and any attempt to compromise our democracy. We call on our fellow law enforcement to join us in condemning yesterday's attack on the US Capitol as what it is: a criminal act and a very real threat to our national security. For nearly two decades, LEAP has been building a platform for law enforcement who know there's a better way and are willing to do what it takes to get us there. In the last year, the need for this movement to take hold has never been more urgent or more obvious. Now the real work begins. In solidarity, 
Lt. Diane Goldstein (Ret.)
Executive Director |
