Want to do something?

So in addition to taking direct action and protesting, etc. (in response to recent events in Ferguson, Cleveland, Staten Island, and many other places) there are other avenues for promoting change. One example is appealing to our elected officials. They are the ones who propose and vote upon legislation, so (in my opinion) it makes sense to bring them into the fold as soon as possible. The End Racial Profiling Act was drafted and introduced to the Senate last year, but has not gained enough attention to garner serious discussion or voting upon it. This can change - here's how.

Want to contact your senator? Go here.

Want to contact your representative? Go here.

Add your info, copy and paste the form letter below, and then change it to your liking. REMEMBER that if you are sending it a representative, then you need to change the greeting too. AND YOU NEED TO FILL IN A SENTENCE IN THE LAST PARAGRAPH.

Sample Letter

Dear Senator Schumer,

In May 2013, Senator Ben Cardin introduced the End Racial Profiling Act to the Senate. As you likely already know, The End Racial Profiling Act comprehensively addresses the insidious practice of racial profiling by law enforcement on five levels: first, it clearly defines the racially discriminatory practice of racial profiling by law enforcement at all levels; second, it creates a federal prohibition against racial profiling; thirdly, it mandates data collection so we can fully assess the true extent of the problem; fourth, it provides funding for the retraining of law enforcement officials on how to discontinue and prevent the use of racial profiling; and fifth, it holds law enforcement agencies that continue to use racial profiling accountable.

I urge you to co-sponsor this bill just as Senator Gillibrand has and then publicly pledge to vote for this legislation when the time comes.

It is abundantly clear that there are major problems with how police departments are currently serving their communities throughout the country. The events in Ferguson, Cleveland, Staten Island and so many other places have demonstrated the dire need for change in how police departments approach keeping communities safe and uphold the law. This legislation can serve as a step in the right direction where all citizens feel as though their rights and well being are being properly protected by law enforcement agencies.

   

As a public school student in New York City, I have... (you fill this in)

The threat of unnecessary harassment and wanton violence is such that we can no longer sit idly. It is time for a new approach and to instill a greater sense of accountability in our law enforcement agencies. Only then can we continue to move forward as a city, state, and nation.

Most Sincerely, 

(Your Name)