Dear John,
Today, Minneapolis jurors declared their truth: that former police officer Derek Chauvin murdered George Floyd. We believe that it is crucial to hold to account both the individuals who commit police violence against people of color and the systems that perpetuate the use of violence as strategy. The job of this jury is done. But the job of those who seek justice is not. Systemic change is necessary for communities of color to live in safety and thrive.
The conviction of Derek Chauvin illustrates that justice was served in this case. And it also is a stark reminder that we must go beyond policing and ensure that all our communities are safe from violence by the state. All communities must live free from fear of police, the very people who are paid to protect and serve.
We stand in solidarity with the family members of George Floyd, Eric Garner, Breonna Taylor, Daunte Wright, Philando Castile, Sandra Bland, and so many others who could not live in safety because of the police. We must put an end to any illusion of safety historically rooted in racist and elitist stereotypes that continue to build up armed, militant, and unaccountable police forces in our communities. Now marks a clear moment in time to develop new practices and policies that center the importance and values of community health, safety, and well-being for people of color, and all of us. No one is safe until everyone is safe.
Visionary systemic change to keep our communities truly safe must be sought, especially during this moment. Tragically, this verdict won’t solve the crises of violence that are inherent to our current policing system. This moment cries out for going beyond police reform, which research shows has not prevented continued police violence perpetrated against Black and brown bodies. Such reforms, while a step forward, are simply not enough. Communities across the country are constructing exciting programs that support community safety and wellbeing that go beyond policing.
Our hearts today are with the family of George Floyd, with the Minneapolis community, and with the millions who grieve and who fear. May we all fight for the systemic change we need and the brighter and safer future we all deserve.
Below, we have included Value, Problem, Solution, Action guidance to help you respond to today's trial and address the work that needs to be done ahead.
Driven toward justice,
Ellen Buchman & The Opportunity Agenda Team
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VPSA Guidance for Responding to the Derek Chauvin Verdict:
Value: We all want to feel truly safe, particularly in our communities and in our homes. Real community safety means that people can live and take care of loved ones without the fear of anyone, especially the police, putting their lives or health at risk.
Problem: For far too long, the safety of communities – BIPOC communities, LGBTQ communities, and people experiencing poverty or mental health issues in particular – has been put at risk because of the false vision of police as the only enforcers of public safety. It’s a vision that persists despite seeing time and time again how the over-policing of communities of color has threatened their very safety, and existence.
Solution: People have come together to develop alternatives to policing that center the needs of their communities while reducing the risk of police violence. Real safety means that people have access to the economic, educational, and public health supports that we know prevent violence and create thriving communities. Resources directed toward those things make us safe, not bloated police departments with access to military-grade gear, or the assumption that pouring more resources into training is the answer. We need to support systems that provide alternatives to the police so that communities can be involved in maintaining their safety through these proven tactics.
Action: Build an affirmative vision of true safety. Uplift what a world without police looks like. Show how community support looks when communities thrive. Illustrate local examples of how the police presence in your community has been reduced and how your community has stepped up to address broader needs while also advancing true safety.
