The Board of Directors of Standish-Ericsson Neighborhood Association recognizes the historic importance of these times. We acknowledge the need for systemic change that delivers on the yet unmet promises of equity, inclusion and the dismantling of racist constructs within all levels and departments of government and society as a whole.
We stand with the numerous Anti-racism, BIPOC, Women, Gender and LGBTQ+ Activists and others who are driving the call for systemic change. We believe that broad, inclusive civic engagement is required at every step in the process in order to enact policy and practice that is sustainable and supported by a strong community mandate.
The City of Minneapolis Charter Amendment proposed by the City Council and currently under review by the Charter Commission, will have lasting implications for the state of public safety in our city. The citizens and stakeholders of Standish and Ericsson must have a meaningful opportunity to ensure that public safety in our City accurately reflects their vision. Consistent with these beliefs, we urge the Charter Commission to take steps necessary to permit the City Council’s proposed Amendment to be placed on the ballot this November.
Regardless of the outcome of the Charter Amendment process, we encourage all stakeholders of Standish and Ericsson to take measures to ensure that the City Council and other representatives of City government understand your expectations regarding the process and importance of stakeholder engagement. We are committed to working with elected officials and representatives to ensure that those expectations are respected in any process that determines or shapes the state of public safety in the City.