Albina Ministerial Alliance Coalition for Justice and Police Reform

September 25th Mobilization for Justice and Police Accountability

Broad cross section of Portland groups calling for public involvement in police union talks and other reforms
Pioneer Courthouse Square, SW 6th & Morrison
10:30 AM (gather) 11 AM (rally), 12:30 PM (March)

In less than a year, Portland police have been involved in several high profile cases involving the use of excessive force. These include the shooting deaths of three men: Aaron Campbell, Jack Collins, and Keaton Otis and a twelve year old girl who was shot with a bean bag gun at a MAX station. The AMA Coalition has taken a strong stand for scrutiny of the police bureau's use of excessive force, the need for more public involvement in the Independent Police Review Committee, and opening police union contract talks to the public.

"The main goal of the rally on September 25th is to continue mobilizing the community for justice and police reform," said Reverend Dr. LeRoy Haynes, of the AMA Coalition. " Our work is not done. We need to restore a respectful relationship between Portland's police force and the community."

The AMA Coalition for Justice and Police Reform is working toward these five goals:
1. A federal investigation by the Justice Department to include criminal and civil rights violations, as well as a federal audit of patterns and practices of the Portland Police Bureau.
2. Strengthening the Independent Police Review Division and the Citizen Review Committee with the goal of adding power to compel testimony.
3. A full review of the Bureau's excessive force and deadly force policies and training with diverse citizen participation for the purpose of making recommendations to change policies and training.
4. The Oregon State Legislature narrowing the language of the State statute for deadly force used by police officers.
5. Establishing a special prosecutor for police excessive force and deadly force cases.

The AMA Coalition for Justice and Police Reform follows these three principles:
Embrace the five goals.
Accept the principles of non-violent direct action as enunciated by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Work as a team in concert to achieve the goals.

CONTACT
Rev. Kate Lore 503-228-6389, ext. 44
Dr. LeRoy Haynes 503-287-0261
Dr. T. Allen Bethel 503-288-7241

For more information go to:
www.albinaministerialcoalition.org

NOTE: Portland Copwatch is a cosponsor of this event.

Portland Copwatch home page

Page posted September 11, 2010