In an ongoing effort to strengthen police-community relations and build a safe, equitable, just community where all Akron residents are valued and respected, the Committee to Improve Police-Community Relations was formed in August 2022.
Chaired by Judi Hill, president, Akron NAACP, and representing diverse community and faith leaders long committed to the safety and dignity of all community members, the Committee to Improve Police-Community Relations is leading an urgent ballot initiative to pass a charter amendment providing police reform guidelines, a Citizens’ Police Oversight Board, and peacebuilding practices in the Akron community.
Each member of the committee brings essential expertise and experience in civil rights, community organizing, policing, local government, and faith and healing.
Committee members:
Chair: Judi Hill, President, Akron NAACP
Rev. Ray Greene, Executive Director, The Freedom BLOC
Senator Dr. Vernon Sykes, District 28, Ohio State Senate
Rev. Nanette Pitt, Senior Minister, First Congregational Church of Akron
Councilor Veronica Sims, District 5, Summit County Council
Councilor Shammas Malik, Ward 8, Akron City Council
Councilor Linda Omobien, At-Large, Akron City Council
Rev. Dr. Roderick Pounds, Pastor, Second Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Joyce Penfield, Leadership Team, Akron Interfaith Social Justice Group