EMAIL SCRIPT:
Hi (insert elected official name):
I am writing as a constituent who strongly stands against police brutality. I believe our current system is supported by the deep legacy of structural racism that exists within every level of society in America. Moreover, I am specifically interested in the way it rears its head when law enforcement officers interact with Black and Brown communities. Data indicates, Black people are more likely to be harassed, stopped, arrested, and killed by police than their white counterparts. This must change and I am writing to urge you to step in and help us stand on the right side of history.
Fortunately, there’s something you can do about it. I am requesting that you support the following:
This is an issue that really matters to me and many others who you serve. I intend to closely watch your actions as it relates to police reform over the course of this year. Make no mistake, it will impact the way I vote in upcoming elections. I look forward to working with you to make sure our community is safe for everyone.
Hi (insert elected official name):
I am writing as a constituent who strongly stands against police brutality. I believe our current system is supported by the deep legacy of structural racism that exists within every level of society in America. Moreover, I am specifically interested in the way it rears its head when law enforcement officers interact with Black and Brown communities. Data indicates, Black people are more likely to be harassed, stopped, arrested, and killed by police than their white counterparts. This must change and I am writing to urge you to step in and help us stand on the right side of history.
Fortunately, there’s something you can do about it. I am requesting that you support the following:
- Divest the police department: Police department's budgets have ballooned over the years. Many cities police departments account for 30% of more of the city's total spending. These massive budgets should be curtailed and excess funds should be spent on affordable housing, economic development, and mental health services.
- Ban the use of chemical weapons and flash bangs on protestors: Tear gas is a chemical weapon that is banned in warfare. I urge you to follow the lead of Portland, Oregon, Denver, Colorado, and Seattle, Washington and ban the use of tear gas.
- Eliminate paid administrative leave for officer involved deaths: Police officers have overly expansive bargaining rights that prevent justice from being served. Officers have been found still on department's payroll after being found guilty. We must re-evaluate paid administrative leave.
- Mandate officers provide CPR or aid to those who are hurt: Police officers should be trained to provide CPR and first aid to individuals who they shoot. Many police departments do not have a policy that states they must render aid to those who are shot or injured by police officers.
- Strengthen and empower Civilian Police Review Boards: Civilian Police Review Boards must be able to ability to conduct investigations, possess subpoena power, hear testimony, and contribute to disciplinary actions, or its existence is futile.
This is an issue that really matters to me and many others who you serve. I intend to closely watch your actions as it relates to police reform over the course of this year. Make no mistake, it will impact the way I vote in upcoming elections. I look forward to working with you to make sure our community is safe for everyone.