We all have a fundamental right to live free from fear, free from crime, and free from disorder - but while we share that right, we also share the duty to secure it.
William BrattonRead
If an African-American or a recent immigrant - or anyone else, for that matter - can't feel secure walking into a police station or up to a police officer to report a crime, because of a fear that they're not going to be treated well, then everything else that we promise is on a shaky foundation.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Trust in law enforcement is crucial for community safety and justice.
This quote emphasizes the importance of trust between marginalized communities and law enforcement. When individuals, particularly those from African-American or immigrant backgrounds, fear discrimination or mistreatment from police, it undermines the very foundation of justice and safety that these institutions are supposed to uphold, indicating a need for reform and community engagement.
Themes
TrustJusticeCommunityPoliceSafety
In practice
Example use cases
During a town hall meeting discussing community relations with law enforcement.
More from William Bratton
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Justice delayed is democracy denied.
John F. KennedyRead
In America, an acquittal doesn't mean you're innocent, it means you beat the rap. My clients lose even when they win.
F. Lee BaileyRead
After decades of persistent, courageous advocacy - often at risk to their own lives, livelihoods, and safety - African Americans succeeded in securing their right to a voice in our government, and their work laid the foundation for the social justice work of generations to follow.
Abigail SpanbergerRead
We treat Black and brown kids who can't vote yet, can't join the military, can't rent a car or even buy a lottery ticket - like adults in our criminal legal system. We deprive them of their joy and their youth. Children who deserve to live rich and abundant lives.
Cori BushRead
Because we always are feeling for justice for all that the reality is, unfortunately, the justice system is skewed, and often people of color do not receive appropriate justice in this country.
Martin Luther King IiiRead
The law regards man as man, and takes no account of his surroundings or of his color when his civil rights as guaranteed by the supreme law of the land are involved.
John Marshall HarlanRead