Police Reform and 2021
by Dawn Morabe
While we may feel that we “dodged the bullet” this year, we must be prepared for 2021. This year brought many critical discussions about our profession and the need for change. In the last six months of this year’s legislative session, we saw a major push for police reform. Many bills introduced were hastily written and were responses to the outcry of numerous social justice campaigns. Thankfully, our concerns were heard and most of the measures did not pass through committee, were held by authors, or were vetoed by the Governor. Yet, at a time we would all be sighing relief for completing a successful session, we are keenly aware that nearly every bill that did not move this year will likely be reintroduced in the new legislative session.
One of the powerhouse groups behind the scenes was PORAC. PORAC worked diligently this year on our behalf to bring real law enforcement experience, expertise, and ideas to the conversation around police reform and policy changes. With assistance from a few of PORAC’s legal defense attorneys and PORAC’s internal and external communications team, they met with Legislators, legislative staff, and the Governor’s office to ensure when serious reform was discussed, we were at the table.
Next year it will be more important than ever that discussions around police reform involve us. Our profession will undoubtedly experience more change. My hope is that great leadership will emerge and authentic discussions about our profession can take place. I also hope that we in law enforcement will not be used as political pawns in the game of self-advancement.
Next year we must continue to challenge those in leadership positions to understand our profession and the often impossible requirements placed upon us. This is true for our politicians and our department leaders. Real leadership requires one to listen, to be open, and to be visionary.
Leaders can’t – and shouldn’t – stand alone. Leaders exists at all levels, not just the top. And leadership is not just about command and control; it is also about inspiring and ensuring the people you lead feel valued.
So, I close with this: What type of leader will you be in 2021?⭑