By Becky Wisniewski
Contributing Writer
City residents criticized the Albany City police department for what they said are racial profiling practices at a meeting of the Common Council Monday April 6. Some 21 residents were scheduled to speak at the meetings, many of whom came to discuss the case of Donald Ivy, who died April 2.
One of the main topics of discussion was the treatment of African Americans by Albany police officers.
Among the speakers was resident Angelica Clarke, who said she was disgusted by Ivy’s death. Ivy, an African American, died after he was Tasered by a white Albany Police officer. Clarke asked the Council to consider taking Tasers away from the police department. She said that using them encourages violence, which could be avoided.
Clarke suggested that other options be considered for Albany officers to use as protection other than guns or clubs. Instead of making the city safer, Clarke said that the weapons make it difficult for the public to protect themselves.
“Reflect on what you see as safety,” said Clarke.
She said the city needs to redirect its resources to help the residents live in harmony with the police department.
In addition, another resident said that Albany police officers are conducting racial profiling. Marlon Anderson said that racial discrimination with the police department occurs every day in the community. As someone who personally knew Ivy, Anderson said that while police are attempting to address the issues of race in the community, they are still profiling.
“Race and racism in the city of Albany is a conversation that needs to be had,” said Anderson.
Another city resident said that he was interrogated by an Albany police officer at a traffic stop and another citizen said he was questioned for riding a bike around the neighborhood.
One citizen, a city garbage worker, said he was discriminated against at work because of his age and weight by his supervisor. Another citizen said that he was fired from his job because his supervisor victimized him for allegedly refusing a drug test when he was on heavy pain medication for an injury at the time.
A number of the residents in attendance said they are not seen as a priority and want their voices to be heard. The Council told those in attendance they would follow up with those who addressed the body.
