Action needed NOW to stop 'Operation Safety Net' police funding

Dear John,

The movement for Black lives—for just, caring communities where we can all be free—exists far and wide beyond the walls of a courtroom. It is in all of us. In our communities, our streets, and our acts of care. It is in our multiracial commitment to defend Black lives and build a brighter future for all of us, because we know our liberation is tied together.   

We don’t yet know what all will come from this defining moment, but we feel its power, our love, and our resolve: we cannot stop. 

We continue to grieve the death of George Floyd. Of Daunte Wright. Of Philando Castile. Of Jamar Clark. Of so many others in Minnesota and across the country who should still be with us today. We grieve the compounding harm that Derek Chauvin's trial inflicted on our communities. 

Our collective grief is palpable. It’s been heavy in the streets and yet we are called to action. We are the answer – all of us, being all in.  Our communities are already showing the way: building systems of justice, safety, and care. We are building a better way. We got us. 

We have two urgent calls to action. 

As Black, Indigenous, and people of color have been in the streets in grief and rage ahead of the trial, and for Daunte Wright, they have been met with state-sanctioned violence: ‘Operation Safety Net.’ Over 75 community organizations, local elected officials, thousands of Minnesotans, 100+ doctors and legal experts have spoken out against this violent approach. 

Join us in taking action to stop the repression on two fronts: 

1. On Monday, the state Senate approved $9 million for out-of-state police for ‘Operation Safety Funds.’ This is unacceptable. The MN House will vote on a similar proposal soon. Take urgent action.  

2. TOMORROW, the NAACP will be asking the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, or POST Board, to create a standard mandatory First Amendment public assembly response to ensure police are held accountable for how they respond to those exercising our right to free speech. Add your voice to their petition. 

Together in la lucha, 

Amanda Otero