I've Been Learning, So Can You

Hello!

Thank you for opening up to community feedback.

Community safety never used to be something I thought about. Being white, I always felt protected in the community. I knew that the police served to protect me and people like me, and I never thought more about it.

Recently however it has become apparent that Canadian police forces do not protect and serve all communities equally. In fact, for under-privileged and/or non-white communities, police have been a source of of great pain, suffering, and injustice. The disturbing case of of Abdirahman Abdi (which happened right here in Hintonburg) is just one example of how police violence has left it's scar on Ottawa.

I've been doing my part to become more aware of these issues recently, as I believe it's my responsibility as a white citizen to speak up for communities the police have failed to serve justly. I want A community where all people feel safe and protected against injustice. I want a justice system that serves everyone, not just the white and well-to-do.

If we are to build a safer community, I believe we have to stop relying on police violence as a "bandaid solution" for suppressing crime. Instead, I suggest the city re-allocate police funding to combat crime at its roots. That means increased funding for social programs, affordable housing, healthcare, addictions counciling, mental health resources etc. etc.

Safer communities start with compassion, not conviction.

Thank you for hearing my concerns.