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MANYC Newsletter

Urgent: Black-led Calls to Action

Dear MANYC Community:

Here are some urgent calls to action we are hearing from Black leadership across NYC. 

We share this info in the spirit of self-determination, and we encourage you to follow your conscience as you decide how you want to engage.  

Remember: There are many ways to be in the struggle beyond the streets, and the work we do to support Black neighbors via mutual aid is part of the long-term work of mending the damage of hundreds of years of oppression and building better structures for the future.

Defund NYPD + Repeal 50-A

Time-sensitive: Two decisions re: the police system are on the table in city budget conversations this week

  • NYC’s City Council is discussing next year’s NYPD budget
  • New York’s Legislature is considering repealing Section 50-A, known as the “Police Secrecy Law.” 

Right now, Mayor de Blasio has proposed a budget for 2021 that cutseducation, social services, and youth program funding, while keeping the NYPD fully funded at $6 billion dollars

There are many ways that the city can easily cut the NYPD budget and use those funds instead to support our communities. 

Reducing the NYPD budget by $1 billion – or about 17% – would provide necessary funds for food, housing, and social services. This is a direct link to MANYC’s work.

Take action: Make calls!

Take action: Share your testimonies!

  • Recall a troubling incident involving NYPD – whether you experienced it personally or heard from someone seeking support on the hotline.
  • Record a short video or audio clip (30 to 60 seconds) describing what happened.
  • Try to give context: Was a person of color, an immigrant, an undocumented person, or LGBTQ person involved?
  • Include whatever personal information you are comfortable with – such as your first name, organization you were representing at the time, the general location – without putting yourself or someone else at risk. 
  • Email the file to Leo Ferguson leo@jfrej.org at Jews For Racial and Economic Justice.

How to Participate in Street Actions:

Learn before you go. Show up prepared.

Safety for Street Actions

We thank you. We support you. Be safe out there.

Talk to non-Black people you love about structural racism.

Some helpful compilations of resources:

Donate

FTP

  • Donate to their bail fund here: @FTP4BAILFUND.

Thank you for doing your part to support our Black neighbors.

In solidarity, 
Mutual Aid NYC

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