One month after Portland police officer Ronald Frashour fatally shot Aaron Campbell, the Portland City Council is still struggling with growing community anger over the unarmed man's death. Demonstrations, a high profile visit by Rev. Jesse Jackson - as well as an upcoming March 14 visit by national civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton - and criticism from new quarters, such as Multnomah Circuit Court Judge Michael Marcus have pushed city leaders to scramble for the release of the grand jury transcript and request a civil rights investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. These steps have not quelled the growing list of demands for reform by the Albina Ministerial Alliance and other community-based groups seeking fundamental change in the police bureau.
This week, Jo Ann and Dave talk with Rev. T. Allen Bethel, president of the Albina Ministerial Alliance, and Pastory LeRoy Haynes, vice-president of the alliance about what steps the city needs to take to address police violence.
The conversation doesn't end when the program does. You can join in additional discussion of the week's issue on our blog at kboo.fm/voicesfromtheedge (click on the "blog" tab). You'll find additional information, important links, comments from other listeners and commentary from Jo Ann and Dave. Have a question for our guests, but can't call in during the program? Post your questions on line so we can make them a part of the Voices discussion.
- KBOO