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Defunding School Police an Important First Step to Invest in Black Futures

07.02.20
Black Lives Matters Rallies At LA Board Of Education To Defund School Police

Last night, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) School Board voted to reduce funding for the L.A. School Police Department by $25 million and redirect those funds to invest in resources for Black students. The board’s vote also directs LAUSD to recall school police officers from campuses and take them “out of uniform” until a district task force meets and issues a report.  

Vickie Ramos Harris, Director of Educational Equity at Advancement Project California, issued the following statement in response to the board’s decision: 

“Black students experience schools, the police, and this pandemic very differently than others. Random searches and over-policing of Black students undermines learning, safety, and engagement. Resources make our schools safe, not police. This is a critical first step to defund school police and invest in Black futures. Together, we can reimagine school safety that focuses on building strong communities where Black students and our highest-need communities can thrive. We stand in solidarity with the powerful voices of students, parents, and community partners like InnerCity Struggle and Community Coalition that have courageously led the charge for change; and offer our gratitude for the bold leadership of Board Members Monica Garcia, Nick Melvoin, and Kelly Gonez. It’s past time our elected officials show Black Lives Matter not just in their rhetoric, but in their actions.”