DCC – Presentation to Signal Hill City Council
Goal - The City of Signal Hill seeks to engage the community and dialogue on various aspects of race and equity as part of an evolving effort to address systemic racism and bias in the policies and practices of municipal government, more specifically, the police department.
Analysis - In the wake of George Floyd’s murder and protests for racial justice across the United States, the City of Signal Hill seeks to identify, understand, and address current issues surrounding racial justice, systemic inequities, and structural racism within our community. Past and recent events have illuminated that certain public practices and policies have created inequities and wide disparities in opportunities related to education, employment, housing, health care, public safety, and wealth for Black people and other persons of color.
Background - The City Council committed to the formation of a Diversity Coalition Committee (DCC) and developed a Diversity Framework. The proposed goals of the DCC are focused on three specific areas: education, facilitation, and continuous improvement.
Priorities / Research –
Resident Survey (Primary, informal, quantitative, qualitative) Signal Hill Police Department Policies and Procedures (Secondary, qualitative) Diversity events calendar (Secondary)
Annual Police reports from other police departments (Secondary, qualitative, quantitative) Responses from SH Residents (Primary, informal, qualitative) Objectives
Police Department to provide monthly verbal reports and quarterly written annual status reports to City Council Host quarterly meetings/events focused on developing two-way communication with residents Host annual cultural celebration event
Strategies to support Police Department
Obtain data related to SHPD activities and complaints
SHPD to participate in dialogue with residents for feedback and concerns regarding policing and safety of the community Create/support social events for the SHPD to get to know the community they serve in an informal atmosphere Position SHPD as one of the best police departments to work for.
Enlist all stakeholders to assist in planning and supporting the Cultural Festival and other cultural events DCC’s past events and engagement opportunities
Diversity Breakfast – The DCC added roundtable discussions Harvey Milk Breakfast
Ron Settles Day commemoration
State of the City – Outlined the trailblazing efforts of the Signal Hill City Council and DCC Community Survey – Created a baseline community perspective. Outlined many positives, but also brought to light some opportunities that remain Communication/resolution to City Council condemning AAPI violence Research of SHPD training and communication plan
Research of similar police departments, Department of Justice, POST, etc. to identify comparisons and requirements Elevating the dialogue and spotlighting culture within Signal Hill Diversity Showcase at “Concerts in the Park”
Key Message
The City of Signal Hill is committed to striking a balance between economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental well-being by partnering with our neighbors, businesses, and the community to provide a healthy and enduring environment for future generations.
Additional Discussion Topics:
Communication Efforts / Events - Overview
DCC’s anticipated forecast of events and activities - Overview Attachment A