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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSLOPD Funding Christian, Kevin From:Luca MacDougall <lmacdougall13@gmail.com> Sent:Tuesday, June 2, 2020 1:36 PM To:E-mail Council Website Subject:SLOPD Funding Dear City Council, My name is Luca MacDougall and I have been a resident of San Luis Obispo for almost 21 years. As you know, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Tony McDade, and so many unnamed others have been killed because of our country’s systemically racist criminal justice system. In light of these events, we ask that in today’s review of the 2020-21 budget, you reallocate some of the funds currently directed toward the police department to other programs and alternative forms of policing, such as community policing, community development, or even a specific diversity, equity, and inclusion line item. We believe this is a small request to begin to address the massive inequities and systems of oppression that have been perpetuated by governmental inaction. Though this will not fix the problem, it will move our city in a positive direction and demonstrate a tangible commitment to addressing systematic racism. Over the years I have been excited and proud to introduce friends from around the world to the magic of SLO. However, recent events in the city and around the country make it clear that many friends of mine would not be treated equally in the city of SLO. I implore you to consider the kind and peaceful image SLO has and use that consideration in the decision to reduce funding to SLOPD and bolster your support for community organizations like the Access Support Network, Trans Central Coast, the SLO NAACP, and so many other organizations that have taken it upon themselves to provide aid to the most vulnerable of our community. Please help me be proud of my home once again. Thank you for all you do for the City of San Luis Obispo and for your consideration. With Power, Luca MacDougall 1