Statement regarding Saratoga Springs Police and Public Safety June 28th Press Conference
The League of Women Voters of Saratoga County absolutely supports individual rights including the right to protest. The right to assess government actions and indeed criticize the government is a cornerstone of democracy. Unfortunately, statements made at the Public Safety Department’s press conference on June 28th linking protests and criticism of the police to increases in criminal activity appear to be aimed to intimidate those who exercise that right.
We acknowledge the efforts of the police and city leaders to listen to citizen concerns during the publicly held discussions this past year as part of the Governor’s executive order on police reform. We encourage public officials and leaders to continue the dialogue, to build public trust and positive community relationships by supporting community participation in policy and decision-making, increasing transparency through the timely dissemination of information to the public, and unequivocally supporting the right to protest.
Like many organizations, the League has recently recommitted to working toward equity and inclusion, not only within the League itself but also in the communities it serves. We acknowledge systemic racism and look within our own organization and every level of government to eradicate it. The League recognizes that the individual liberties of Persons of Color are not being equally protected. We believe that racial and economic factors influence the treatment of citizens in the law enforcement system. Improving equity involves increasing justice and fairness for all members of our community within the procedures and processes of all systems.
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See article in the Times Union on July 8, 2021: “League of Women Voters joins condemnation of Saratoga officials” https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/League-of-Women-Voters-joins-condemnation-of-16301735.php