LIVE @ Human Relations Commission of Asheville (HRCA) 06/20/19

Human Relations Commission Addresses Equity, Policing Concerns at June 20th Meeting

The Human Relations Commission of Asheville (HRCA) held a productive meeting on June 20th, focusing heavily on community engagement and addressing concerns surrounding racial equity, particularly within the Asheville Police Department. The meeting marked a transition period for the commission with the welcoming of new members – Betty Council, Tanya Rodriguez, and Nia Barana – while acknowledging the valuable contributions of departing members Michael Carter, Sarah Williams, Christine, and others.

Key Decisions & Procedural Updates: The commission approved the minutes from their previous meeting and, after a thorough review, voted to approve revised rules and procedures for the commission. A key point of discussion centered on voting protocols, ensuring fair representation within the body. The election for Chair and Vice-Chair was postponed until their next meeting in July, allowing the newly appointed members time to familiarize themselves with the process. The commission also decided to schedule a meeting with the Citizen Police Advisory Committee (CPAC) to explore potential collaboration and alignment of efforts.

Significant Discussions & Community Voices: A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing and refining the "Written Consent Report," a crucial initiative aimed at addressing potential racial disparities in policing. Commissioners raised concerns about the phrasing "when safe and practical," questioning whether it might weaken the policy's effectiveness. This discussion highlighted a broader debate about HRCA’s role in advocating for meaningful police reform. The meeting also included a robust discussion surrounding the Community Engagement Subcommittee, with commissioners exploring options for reorganization to ensure continued focus on community engagement efforts.

Community Input & Concerns Regarding Policing: The public comment period was particularly impactful, with several community members sharing deeply personal experiences and concerns. Dee Williams from the NAACP Criminal Justice Reform Committee emphasized the need for HRCA to prioritize addressing policing concerns. Brandon and Nicole Williams shared their own encounters with the Asheville Police Department, detailing instances of perceived unfair treatment and frustration regarding accountability. Scott Owen passionately advocated for HRCA to take a more active role in addressing these issues and challenged the language within the written consent policy. These testimonies underscored a clear desire for HRCA to be a strong voice advocating for community concerns and systemic change.

What's Next & How It Impacts You: Following the meeting, several key action items were identified. HRCA staff will schedule a joint meeting with CPAC to explore potential collaboration and alignment of efforts. They will also provide all commission members with copies of the written consent policy and related documents for further review. A significant next step will be exploring options to create a dedicated subcommittee or working group specifically focused on studying and recommending solutions related to policing issues. Finally, staff will investigate ways to better disseminate information about complaint processes to the community, ensuring residents are aware of their rights and options. The commission will also review minutes from a May Council meeting regarding CPAC, potentially leading to a recommendation on supporting or merging with that committee.

This meeting demonstrated the HRCA's commitment to addressing critical issues of racial equity and police accountability within Asheville. The discussions, decisions, and community input highlighted a shared desire for positive change and a more equitable justice system. Residents can expect to see continued focus on these issues in the coming months, with HRCA actively working towards solutions and advocating for community voices.