The recent decision by the Asheville City Council to accept funds for a Real Time Surveillance system from AXON deeply concerns me and many others in our community. This program poses a significant threat to our privacy and civil rights protections. It is a move towards an intrusive surveillance state that endangers our fundamental freedoms and disproportionately affects vulnerable populations.

The implementation of a Real Time Surveillance system not only invades our personal privacy but also places marginalized communities at greater risk of unwarranted scrutiny and enforcement. Studies have shown that increased surveillance often leads to racial profiling and exacerbates the discrimination faced by minorities and disadvantaged groups. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) states that surveillance technologies can perpetuate biased policing and lead to an increase in false arrests and unnecessary confrontations.

Moreover, surveillance systems have not been proven effective in preventing crime. According to research conducted by the Brennan Center for Justice, there is little evidence to suggest that surveillance cameras significantly reduce crime rates. Instead, these systems create a climate of fear and mistrust, undermining our community cohesion and sense of safety.

The decision to partner with AXON, a company known for its provision of surveillance and policing equipment, raises ethical concerns. This partnership aligns Asheville more closely with a police state model, where increasing surveillance becomes a substitute for community-based programs that could address the root causes of crime more effectively.

I urge the Asheville City Council to reconsider this decision and prioritize the development of community-led safety initiatives that foster trust and collaboration. Let us invest in mental health services, community outreach programs, and other proven methods of supporting our community's needs rather than resorting to invasive surveillance measures.

ALSO, please Email Council:ashevillenccouncil@ashevillenc.gov