Recent national issues between minorities and law enforcement have inspired community members to think proactively right here in Binghamton.


Binghamton's Human Rights Commission proposed measures to ensure anti-racism policies within the police force to the Binghamton City Council Monday night. The goal for the commission was to address ongoing tensions between Binghamton law enforcement and communities of color within the city by banning racial profiling within the police force, requiring reporting of all stops by law enforcement personnel, and requiring the Binghamton police to undergo anti-racism training.


Commission members hope that by putting preventative measures like these in place, the city can prevent situations like those that took place in Ferguson, Missouri and Staten Island last year.


Salka Valerio of Progressive Leaders of Tomorrow said, "I feel like it's a proactive move. It's an action to prevent these tragedies from happening and the police are already doing a good job we think but we think it's going to enhance their performance." Robert Black of Citizen Action said, " Moving forward, they need to treat the community just a little bit different. It's as simple as saying good morning or hello to someone on the street."


The Binghamton City Council plans to meet with the Human Rights Commission as well members of the Binghamton police force for further discussion on April 7th.