Public Comment

We are sadly familiar with the drumbeat of police killings of Black and Brown people across the country. These killings may be far away, but we in Berkeley have our own policing problems. The BPD’s own data show a clear pattern of racial discrimination in stops, searches, and use of force. This year has also seen examples of guns drawn and less-lethal weapons used on Black people.

Measure ii will create a new Police Accountability Board and Director that will have full access to internal BPD records and data, more time for investigations and training in due process procedures, allowing for better oversight of police. This is not a panacea, but it will allow the City Council and the public to better understand what drives policing practices and to impose discipline if needed.

This Campaign deserves your support because:

This is a civil rights issue

The NAACP and other rights organizations have long demanded that the era of “Two Berkeleys,” with police practices impacted by the race of the civilian, end immediately. Racial profiling is a clear violation of the Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments. We need strong disciplinary procedures to make sure the rule of law applies to police.

This is a public safety issue

Each of us is only safe if all of us are safe. The willingness to call and work with the police to combat crime depend on the community knowing they will be treated fairly and equally.

This is a regional issue.

Bay Area police agencies work together closely. A breakthrough in Berkeley in creating a strong oversight structure will be a good model for communities around the region.