Next steps

We felt that the next steps in speaking truth and seeking justice could best be summarized by the following outlook taken from the New Era in Public Safety Guide, written by the Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights.

“To realize a vision of public safety that respects and protects human life and ensures safety for all, communities and police departments should work together to advance 21st-century best practices. By coproducing public safety, communities and police departments can develop policies and practices that reflect community values and interests.

As noted at the outset, the American public and its law enforcement system share the same general goal: to live in safe communities. Determining the role of police and in achieving that goal must be done collaboratively. Bear in mind that many of the issues that give rise to problematic policing practices are societal problems that must be dealt with collectively and by imagining solutions beyond policing and the criminal justice system. Policing reform, in other words, is not the only answer to improving public safety. But it is one piece of the puzzle toward realizing a fairer and safer society.

And change happens one community and one department at a time. By integrating community voices into police policies and practices, developing a shared language to restore trust between communities and departments, and bringing people with diverse perspectives to the decision-making table, communities, law enforcement, and elected officials can coproduce public safety in a way that best services communities’ interests.

The recommendations in this report can achieve this goal. Not all are appropriate for every department and community. Indeed, public safety needs vary across communities large and small; urban, rural, and suburban; homogenous and diverse. Nevertheless, the principles of fairness, equity, procedural justice, legitimacy, transparency, and accountability apply to every department. By working together, communities and police departments can articulate a vision for a new era of policing that respects the dignity and humanity of all people — and can ultimately ensure that all people, of all backgrounds, are truly safe in America.”

Part of speaking truth and seeking justice lies in taking action. As an individual, you may wonder what you can do to help. Here’s a few ideas but the most important thing is to remain aware and informed. Then use your voice.

Part of speaking truth and seeking justice lies in taking action. As an individual, you may wonder what you can do to help. Here’s a few ideas but the most important thing is to remain aware and informed. Then use your voice.

Get Involved

How can you get involved? You can sign a petition, participate in community conversations, contact your city council or state legislators. Let your voice be heard!