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Black Lives Matter

This guide is intended to be a living document. If you notice something is missing, click here to let us know.

LAW ENFORCEMENT OATH OF HONOR

On my honor, I will never betray my badge, my integrity, my character or the public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always uphold the constitution, my community, and the agency I serve.

 

"We're not anti-police ....... we're anti-police brutality."

ReV.  AL SHARPTON

 


DEFINITION OF POLICE

The police are a constituted body of persons empowered by a state, with the aim to enforce the law, to ensure the safety, health and possessions of citizens, and to prevent crime and civil disorder. Their lawful powers include arrest and the use of force legitimized by the state via the monopoly of violence.


PROPER ROLE OF THE POLICE

The purpose of law enforcement in a free society is to promote public safety and uphold the rule of law so that individual liberty may flourish. Trust and accountability between law enforcement and the communities they are sworn to protect is essential to advancing these goals. The government holds the power to exercise force in achieving its ends, but must do so in a way that protects the rights of community members and upholds the rule of law. Proper policing practices require that law enforcement build positive relationships with their community, respect civil liberties, and avoid tactics that encourage the use of excessive force against citizens.


#SAYTHEIRNAMES

Hover over any circle on the map to reveal a life lost to police brutality. Click on any circle on the map to be taken to an article revealing more information about the case.