Lansing launches ‘input series’ on police divestment

MONDAY, July 20 — A series of virtual community meetings on racial justice, social equity and Lansing Police Department funding begins Thursday.

Amid continued unrest over police discrimination in the wake of George Floyd’s killing, Mayor Andy Schor announced three “community input meetings” for residents to “provide their input to a number of questions,” according to a recent press release from Schor’s office.

They’ll take place online. Residents are asked to register early online, but can click this link to join the first meeting on racial justice and social equity from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 23. The next meetings are from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, and Thursday, Aug. 20.

Panelists include consultant Teresa Bingman, Human Relations and Community Services Director Kim Coleman, Police Chief Daryl Green and Lori Adams Simon, a member of the mayor’s Diversity and Inclusion Council. Others could join “as needed,” according to a release.

The meetings are part of Bingman’s internal and external “environmental scans” for Schor’s latest “Racial Justice and Equity/Police Reform Plan,” according to a press release. Officials said more details will be provided prior to Thursday’s meeting. They haven’t yet been provided.