Police departments are given too much unchecked power. They can acquire military-grade weapons and surveillance technology without legislative approval or civilian oversight. In the wake of nation-wide protests, it is absolutely necessary that we promote accountability above all else. Community Control Over Police Surveillance and Militarization (CCOPS+M) does just that. Not only does CCOPS+M require city council approval before the acquisition or use of these technologies, it also requires the department to publish an annual report about the equipment, addressing any concerns of privacy violation or discrimination. Black and brown people are monitored and policed at a disproportionate rate-- it's time for that to change.

(Image source: https://www.virginiamercury.com/2020/06/01/police-sweep-richmond-streets-on-third-night-of-protests/