In a reversal of longstanding advocacy, the Oakland, California, branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is urging action to address the city’s escalating crime rates, despite having previously called for the defunding of police. This sudden shift comes as a significant about-face for the group, highlighting the real-world implications of the “defund the police” movement.
Having painted a gloomy picture of Oakland’s urban landscape, the NAACP laments the city’s escalating crime rates and deteriorating public safety. The group issued a public statement on Thursday that provides a striking insight into the situation, revealing deep concerns shared by Oakland residents.
Oakland NAACP now cries out for justice after demanding police be defunded and demoralized. Yeah right. They’ll be rioting the next time a criminal gets shot by a police officer. No one is falling for this bullshit anymore. https://t.co/iumigGwg1f
— Cernovich (@Cernovich) July 28, 2023
The NAACP wrote: “Failed leadership, including the movement to defund the police, have created a heyday for Oakland criminals.” The statement paints a bleak picture of a city in fear, with residents scared to leave their homes, highlighting incidents involving targeted attacks and thefts.
The progressive policies championed by the group have exacerbated the city’s woes. City residents, regardless of ethnicity, report feeling unsafe as crime rates continue to surge. The plight of African Americans, disproportionately affected by crime, particularly in East Oakland, is poignant.
Oakland NAACP Called for Defunding the Police. Now They're Demanding Action on Rising Crime https://t.co/oVxQHi7ctQ
— PJ Media (@PJMedia_com) July 29, 2023
Once viewed as a vibrant and progressive city, Oakland is now increasingly perceived as a place marred by violence and insecurity. The letter argues that this fear has resulted in an economic downturn, with people leaving the city and businesses closing. This situation, the NAACP warns, is creating a “notorious doom-loop where life in our city continues to spiral downward.”
The Oakland NAACP and Bishop Bob Jackson of the Acts Full Gospel Church call for more police officers, quality education and mentorship for Oakland’s youth, and reinvestment in blue-collar jobs. The statement adds, “Oakland should focus on creating skilled industrial and logistics jobs that pay family-sustaining wages and vocational training so Oakland residents can perform those jobs.”
Despite the criticism of the city’s law enforcement, Oakland’s District Attorney’s office remains defiant, expressing disappointment in the NAACP’s statement. Still, the call for a state of emergency received support from Rick Callender, president of the NAACP California Hawaii State Conference, who urged the mayor to address the crime crisis.
The change in the NAACP’s approach reminds us of the unintended consequences of radical progressive policy changes. As Oakland wrestles with surging crime and growing public fear, one hopes this becomes a sobering moment for other cities to reconsider the outcomes of hastily implemented social reforms.
