For years, The People’s Consent Decree Coalition, a group of engaged community members, individuals impacted by police activity, and community organizations like the Louisville Urban League, ACLU of Kentucky, and others, have been working and advocating for transformational policies and practices within the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD). For the last six months, the collective has been working specifically on passing an ordinance that would codify and strengthen Louisville’s consent decree. 

As part of that effort, several Councilmembers were invited last fall to join the coalition and advance the work. This was to be an example of how government can–and should–work. Constituents working alongside legislators to craft meaningful and responsive policy, collaborating with communities to address concerns, and ultimately securing passage. Today, Councilwoman Purvis announced an idea that could delay or even jeopardize the work and progress that has been made. That is unfortunate, as she was aware of the work being done.

But power still lies with the people. There is bipartisan interest in our proposal, and despite the actions of one council member, we will continue to seek common ground and push for common-sense policy that better ensures accountability and just treatment from those sworn to protect and serve us.

The Coalition is asking our Metro Council to take leadership in codifying the Mayor’s Community Commitment. We congratulate Mayor Greenberg and Chief Humphrey on their efforts to strengthen the standards of operation and brand for our public safety professionals, but as it stands, the Community Commitment is simply a project of the current administration – limited by their tenure and authority. 

What the people want and deserve is for this work to be transformative and to live on past the terms of those currently in office. To ensure this, we believe the Community Commitment should be codified with the following additions:

• Metro Council oversight for all disputes between the independent monitor and LMPD
• A 72-hour Use of Force review
• A review of unlawful camping citation protocols

We are confident that these small, yet critical additions to the Community Commitment will advance public trust in LMPD, improve police behavior, and provide an avenue for the Metro Council to have an oversight role – a position it does not now have. 

And when we are successful, the city will be better for it. Then, EVERYONE can share in our success.

About the Louisville Urban League
The Louisville Urban League assists African Americans and those at the margins in attaining social and economic equality and stability through direct services and advocacy. For more information, go to lul.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter  (@louisvilleUL), or Instagram (@LouUrbanLeague).