A discussion with Portland's union rank-and-file.
Kristian Williams, author of "Our Enemies in Blue: Police and Power in America" and forthcoming "Policing the Progressive City" about Portland, leads the discussion.
The cops are worried about Portland City Council. They've gotten used to bloated police budgets, absurd overtime payouts, and immunity for violent misconduct. But with four socialists elected to City Council, the police union is suddenly trying to brand itself as a "friend of workers" -- petitioning to join the regional council of labor unions, the Northwest Oregon Labor Council (NOLC). The labor council "speaks" for labor at City Council meetings and with elected politicians. What does this mean for Portlanders fighting for a city budget that doesn't cut their community centers, parks, and services? What does this mean for our efforts to hold Portland police accountability for misconduct?
- KBOO