Summary

In this New York Times editorial, Mariame Kaba (abolitionist organizer, educator, and curator) argues that liberal reforms fail to reduce police violence. At its inception, the police force was used to uphold enslavement and suppress labor uprisings. Therefore, police violence is not a flaw in the system, but its very foundation. When some people argue against defunding or abolishing the police, they do so under the misconception that policing protects the public and that reforms to the system can solve the issue of violence. However, despite countless investigations into “police misconduct” and recommendations adopted by police forces, there have been no significant changes in police behavior. Police officers commit violence and perpetuate harm, regardless of whatever rules have been put in place. The only way forward is reducing police power and investing in communities through education, health care, and housing.