Local Advocacy Group Calls for Police Reform Inside DPD

DULUTH, Minn.– Police accountability was the subject of a gathering Monday with the Duluth Community Safety Initiative.

The group says racial disparities in areas like use of force need to change. They’re calling for a racial bias audit of the Duluth Police Department, the launch of a community led oversight commission, and a budget freeze for the department until part of the funds go toward a new model of policing.

The DCSI met last week with Mayor Emily Larson and Police Chief Mike Tusken to address their proposals.

“We need community members to be involved. We need the community to know how the police treat people, specifically people with brown or black skin,” said DCSI organizer Treasure Jenkins.

Duluth Chief Administrative Officer Noah Schuchman responded to today’s event in a written statement saying,

“The city has had a positive and productive conversation with the Duluth community safety initiative and are eager to continue working with them toward our common goals. We are interested in learning more about DCSI’s proposals, we look forward to additional dialogue, and we are thankful for their engagement on these important issues.”