The Linden Police Department recently participated in a trip to Israel — a country accused of ongoing human rights violations and war crimes. By engaging in such programs, our police align themselves with militarized tactics and practices that harm communities rather than keep them safe.  Our police should not be learning tactics from a government responsible for mass displacement, surveillance, and violence.  

This trip sends the wrong message at a time when residents are calling for transparency, accountability, and de-escalation in policing. Our community deserves better.

We demand:

1. Full transparency – Release all details of the trip, including who funded it, what trainings occurred, and what agreements were made.
2. End harmful partnerships – Stop all current and future exchange programs with governments accused of human rights abuses.
3. Civilian oversight – Require independent community oversight and approval for all international trainings and trips.
4. Invest in the community – Redirect resources toward education, housing, mental health, and youth programs instead of militarized policing.
5. Public accountability – Issue a formal apology for participating in this exchange and acknowledge the harm done to Linden residents.

We call on Linden city officials and the Police Department to take immediate action to uphold justice, transparency, and human rights. Our police must protect and serve our community—not foreign governments.