Addressing Police Violence
Addressing Police Violence
Police violence, in its most encompassing definition, ranges from overt physical aggression to subtler forms of intimidation and misuse of power. Such acts fundamentally undermine the very essence of public safety. By allowing police violence to continue unchecked, we create communities that live in fear rather than security.
Police violence has multi-dimensional harms, extending from individual trauma to community-wide mistrust. It erodes the core purpose of law enforcement: to serve and protect. When certain communities, particularly those of color, feel they are more likely to be victims rather than beneficiaries of the police, the foundation of public safety is shaken.
Historical and systemic racial prejudices are deeply intertwined with instances of police violence. Communities of color disproportionately experience the brunt of aggressive policing tactics. This is not merely a matter of public safety—it's a racial justice crisis. Addressing this requires a deep-seated, systematic transformation, one that acknowledges and remedies the racial biases embedded within our policing system.
In alliance with grassroots organizations, we actively work to reverse the harms of policing. Grassroots movements provide the pulse of the community, allowing us to truly understand the depth of the issue and craft effective strategies to combat it.
Our commitment to challenging police violence is unwavering and multifaceted. A cornerstone of our efforts involves providing legal representation to those who've experienced the heavy hand of undue police force, ensuring their stories are not just heard, but lead to tangible change. We also guide individuals through the intricacies of the police complaint process. This support spans reviewing critical evidence such as body-worn camera footage and pertinent documentation, enabling a comprehensive challenge against any injustices faced. Furthermore, in an era where public voices against police violence are crucial, we stand as staunch defenders of the rights of protestors. Every voice raised against injustice deserves protection, and we are here to ensure those voices resonate freely and powerfully.
Our Advocacy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82T1vCjbHfk
Our Cases
Howard Law School's Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center Challenges D.C. Curfew in Court
Brief amicus curiae of Howard University Human and Civil Rights Clinic
Michael Brown Brief on the Merits
Rekiya Boyd Brief on the Merits
If you, or someone you know, has been a victim of police abuse, we stand ready to assist. Your story matters, and your rights are paramount. Please reach out to us here.
At the Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center, we're redefining public safety, ensuring that it is rooted in community needs, equity, and justice. Join us in this journey to create safer communities for all.