Action Alert: Call on UC Board of Regents to Reevaluate Assembly Bill 481

October 10, 2024 Advocacy Letters

Please use the letter template and contact information below to contact UC Board of Regents and urge them to protect our students’ safety on campus.

UC BOARD OF REGENTS CONTACT INFO:  [email protected]

EMAIL SUBJECT: Protect Our Students! Reevaluate AB 481

[Date]

Board of Regents

University of California

1111 Franklin Street, 12th Floor

Oakland, CA 94607

Dear Members of the Board of Regents,

I am writing to express my concerns about the University of California (UC) Board of Regents’ recent decision to approve military equipment for campus police departments across the University of California system. This decision undermines the UC’s mission to foster an environment of trust, which is vital for the educational and personal growth of our students. Community engagement, accountability, and transparency must be prioritized in implementing all security measures. 

In order to uphold the values and mission of the UC System, I believe it is important to have an open dialogue about law enforcement practices and the tools they use before moving forward with the implementation of Assembly Bill 481. Furthermore, acquiring and deploying military-grade equipment is unnecessary and counterproductive to community safety. Historical evidence shows that military gear leads to more aggressive policing tactics, further alienating students and community members. This move indicates a concerning trend toward heightened militarization of campus police officers and is both unnecessary and counterproductive in promoting community safety and well-being. 

I urge the UC Board of Regents to take immediate action by suspending this approval and addressing the following critical issues:

1. Comprehensive Review of Security Policies: It is vital to initiate a thorough review of current campus security policies, particularly those relating to the use of force and surveillance. The presence of military equipment can escalate tensions rather than resolve them, creating an environment of fear instead of safety.

2. Transparent Oversight Mechanism: Establishing an oversight mechanism that includes student and faculty representation. This oversight body should be empowered to review the activities and equipment procurement of campus police to ensure that these actions align with our community’s values and needs.

3. Redirecting Funds: Rather than investing in military equipment, funds should be redirected towards community-centric safety measures. Investing in mental health resources, conflict resolution programs, and educational workshops focused on de-escalating and respecting student rights will foster a safer and more supportive campus environment.

The approval of military equipment contradicts the principles of community safety that the UC system claims to prioritize. A commitment to our students and faculty requires a new approach to campus safety, moving away from militarization and toward community-building.

Thank you for your attention on this urgent matter. I hope you will prioritize the well-being and safety of our community by opposing the militarization of our campuses.

Thank you,

[Your Name]


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