Invest in community solutions, not militarized police training

The Atlanta Police Foundation's plans for a $90 million police training facility, dubbed "Cop City," raise grave concerns. This militarized complex, featuring urban warfare training grounds, explosives testing areas, and shooting ranges, promotes a needlessly aggressive and violent approach to law enforcement. Rather than investing tens of millions into tactics reminiscent of warfare, these resources should be redirected toward community-based solutions that prioritize de-escalation, crisis intervention, and addressing root causes of crime through social services. The proposed facility perpetuates an "us vs. them" mentality and escalates tensions between police and the communities they are meant to serve and protect. I urge a reconsideration of these plans in favor of investment in evidence-based practices proven to increase public safety while upholding human rights and dignity for all.