Community Comes Together to Discuss Recently Released CPS Race-based Data Analysis
On November 1, 2024, community members gathered at ActionDignity for an open conversation on the recently released 2023 CPS Race-based Data Analysis. The event created a space for people to share their personal stories and thoughts on policing practice in Calgary.
Participants brought forward heartfelt feedback and powerful insights. One attendee suggested breaking down the data by Calgary’s quadrants, hoping it would shine a light on differences across neighborhoods. Others voiced that, in cases of serious police misconduct involving racialized people, the investigations should include neutral third-party members, not just former officers, to help ensure fair outcomes.
The conversation also surfaced some difficult but essential questions: Why does the report focus mostly on Black and Indigenous communities? What about other groups who face challenges too? and What does real accountability in policing look like? How do we make sure progress happens if there’s no way to enforce it?
These questions reflect the community’s drive for change and a shared hope for justice. Many shared that deeper, systemic issues—like the effects of colonization and power structures add to the complexity of creating fair policing.
The gathering was a reminder of the strength and solidarity within Calgary’s diverse communities. Everyone who attended showed a willingness to lean into tough conversations, united by a common goal: a Calgary where everyone feels protected, respected, and seen. Thank you to all who contributed your voices, we’re hopeful that these discussions will lead to meaningful change.
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