Laserfiche WebLink
Secondly, SAPD's abhorrent response to the protests must be condemned and remedied. Folks on the ground, <br /> bystanders, and observers alike agree that the protests and rallies become LESS peaceful when SAPID begins to use force <br /> and intimidation against protesters. Many people have been injured by SAPD's indiscriminate use of pepper balls, rubber <br /> bullets, and tear gas. It is obvious that SAPID does NOT have the adequate training to properly use these weapons, It is <br /> irresponsible for the City to allow SAPID to continue the violence against our own neighbors. One instance of <br /> accountability that I will note is the quick response to repairing the window of Vibes Boutique in DTSA. However, it is not <br /> lost on me that the speedy response was due to the amount of folks calling out the City and SAPID. What about all the <br /> other protesters that were physically and emotionally hurt by SAPID?And, it goes without saying,that <br /> SAPD's reckless use of weapons against peaceful protesters will only lead to MORE MONEY SPENT BY THE CITY in <br /> responding, investigating, settling, and trying any claims that victims will bring forward.The best way to prevent <br /> spending all this taxpayer money is by addressing the root cause of these claims--SAPD's lack of respect and protection <br /> of our neighbors. <br /> Lastly, Santa Ana is a city built by, loved by, and made of immigrants.The city must prioritize our most vulnerable <br /> communities at this time. As mentioned above, it does not do the city any good if the Mayor herself demonizes <br /> protesters. It creates a divide between city officials and our community, and it creates distrust within our community. It <br /> is not political for the city to stand up against the reprehensible behaviour of ICE/DHS/HSI agents that are terrorizing our <br /> neighbors and singling out folks just by the color of their skin. It is simply morally correct to stand up against these <br /> injustices. Santa Ana must defend our migrant community now more than ever. <br /> Thank you, to Councilmembers Lopez,Vasquez, and Hernandez,for putting their bodies on the line alongside protesters. <br /> And thank you to all the community leaders, organizations, and volunteers standing up for what is right. La lucha sigue! <br /> Respectfully, <br /> Yadira G.Torres <br /> 2 <br />