Freedom From Police Violence

Urgent: Ongoing Police Violence

As Albertans, we must acknowledge that police violence isn't just an American problem - it's happening right here, right now. Through our tax dollars, we are funding a system that disproportionately affects Indigenous peoples, black and brown folks, and vulnerable communities. This systemic violence threatens everyone's freedom, and we must take responsibility for changing it.

Community Safety Wisdom

"Public safety means building communities where everyone feels safe, not just those with badges."

Call Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety Email Minister of Public Safety

Call ASIRT (Alberta Serious Incident Response Team) Email ASIRT Director

Why Do We Need Freedom From Police Violence?

Because somehow we went from "protect and serve" to "command and control." Let's talk about why true freedom means addressing the ongoing impacts of police violence in Alberta.

Our Current "Public Safety" System

The Policing Experience Today

We call police for every social problem
We militarize our police forces
We ignore systemic racism
We blame victims
We call it "law and order"
We repeat until someone calls it public safety

What Real Freedom From Police Violence Looks Like

Community safety (not just law enforcement)
Mental health first responders (not armed response)
Accountability (not just internal reviews)
Restorative justice (not just punishment)
Community oversight (not just police investigating police)

But What About Crime?!

Plot Twist

Public safety doesn't mean more police - it means addressing root causes and building stronger communities.

What Reformed Public Safety Looks Like

Community-led safety initiatives
Mental health crisis teams
Civilian oversight boards
De-escalation as standard practice
Cultural competency requirements
Restorative justice programs

The Economic Reality

When we reduce policing:

Communities become safer
Mental health improves
Trust rebuilds
Resources get better allocated
Everyone benefits from community-centered safety

Reality Check

Reform without systemic change is just oppression with better PR.

Pro Freedom Tip

If we think police reform is too radical, let's remember that militarized policing was pretty radical too.

Resources and Support

If you've experienced police violence:

Know your rights
Document everything
Seek legal support
Connect with advocacy groups
Access mental health support

Emergency Situations

If you're in immediate danger, seek safety first. Document the incident when it's safe to do so.

Moving Forward

Creating freedom from police violence requires systemic change and community engagement. It's about building a society where public safety means safety for everyone, not just some.

Get Involved

Join local organizations working on police accountability and community safety initiatives. Change happens when communities come together.

Remember: Real freedom means freedom for everyone, and that includes freedom from the fear of those meant to protect us.

Sources & Evidence

Police Oversight Changes

ASIRT (Alberta Serious Incident Response Team) is now part of the new Police Review Commission (restructured 2024)
The Alberta Police Misconduct Database documents concerning patterns in policing
Civilian oversight of police operations remains limited
Source: Alberta Police Review Commission
Source: Alberta Police Misconduct Database

Indigenous Overrepresentation

Indigenous people are disproportionately affected by policing practices in Alberta
Indigenous peoples remain overrepresented in police encounters and corrections
Indigenous women face significantly higher rates of violence
Source: Statistics Canada - Indigenous corrections
Source: MMIWG Final Report

Mental Health Crisis Response

Mental health crisis calls are often handled by armed officers instead of appropriate crisis workers
Community-based safety alternatives remain underfunded
Investment in prevention programs lacking
Source: Canadian Mental Health Association - Alberta