WASHINGTON, DC– In response to the breaking news that People For the American Way Young Elected Official Network  member and Ithaca, New York Mayor Svante Myrick unveiled the “Reimagining Public Safety” report and proposal to develop a new public safety agency in place of the city’s current police department, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“Mayor Svante Myrick shows us how fresh thinking by a dynamic young leader can totally change the equation around public safety in America. Our communities desperately need innovative solutions to stop police violence and overpolicing. Myrick’s proposal to reimagine public safety services in the city of Ithaca and Tompkins County, New York, is an exemplary model and exactly what our nation needs for safer and healthier communities. We have a deep appreciation for police officers who are dedicated to performing their duties admirably and professionally, and we also understand that we must better serve Black people and other communities that have historically been marginalized and who are disproportionately impacted by violent policing. Myrick’s proposal should be a model for the nation, so all communities can have the resources they need to keep them safe while ensuring equal treatment, justice, and fairness for residents.”

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About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.