Laserfiche WebLink
PRESS RELEASE <br /> For Immediate Release <br /> November 25, 2014 <br /> Contact: Henry Davis, Jr. 574 315-4112 <br /> WE MUST LEARN FROM FERGUSON: SOUTH BEND NEEDS A MINORITY <br /> RECRUITMENT PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS <br /> (South Bend, IN) Over the past year, there has been 30 EEOC complaints from <br /> the current minority officers in South Bend. It has become increasingly apparent that the <br /> City of South Bend needs to change their hiring practices. As reported by FOX 28 news <br /> today, Council members Oliver Davis and Fred Ferlic finally expressed the need for a <br /> public safety department to reflect the community as much as possible. "That's not <br /> representative of our community demographics...there are repercussions when you <br /> don't represent the community you serve," said Ferlic. <br /> "I am elated that they agree with me and it is time for the Mayor to answer the <br /> call for true leadership", says Councilman Henry Davis, Jr. - 2nd District <br /> The numbers tell South Bend's true story with an overall population of 101, 000 <br /> residents our police department boasts \approximate figures of 10% minority <br /> representation and even less within the fire department. It is clear we need a profound <br /> change in recruitment policies and practices. President Oliver Davis stated, "That's why <br /> we need to make sure that we reflect the diversity and strength of our city in all levels of <br /> government." The population of South Bend has approximately 33% African Americans, <br /> 15% Latinos, and a population of over 50% women. However, the city's workforce <br /> clearly does not represent its population. In 2012, the city was interrupted by the "tape <br /> scandal" in which two minorities were removed from high profile positions. Since that <br /> time the community has remained polarized by this scandal. <br /> South Bend can become an 'ALL AMERICAN CITY for the 21st CENTURY <br /> CITY', and the next Silicon Valley. However, we have to value and showcase our true <br /> diversity by actually honoring it through a recruitment process that will value all of South <br /> Bend's residents. <br />