Bucks Co. NAACP Forms New Committee After Protests

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Bucks County's chapter of the NAACP has formed a new committee focused on racial equality in policing and other issues brought to light by the recent wave of protests that have spread worldwide.

The chapter's Criminal Justice & Education Committee will develop and implement strategies "to advance racial equality in policing, encourage full voting participation, promote anti-racist policies, practices and culture in schools and increase public awareness of racism," according to the NAACP.

In a news release, the Bucks NAACP said the committee was inspired by strong public support following the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and aims to bring longtime civil rights leaders together with new volunteers.

"Every child in Bucks County should grow up knowing they are valued and their future is bright, and every person should know they can count on equal protection under the law," said Karen Downer, president of the Bucks County NAACP. :We look forward to productive discussions with county, municipal, police, school, and community leaders about how we can ensure equal treatment for Black and brown people and embrace the value of our diversity to strengthen our county."

The committee is led by labor, employee relations and municipal law attorney Patrice Tisdale, of Warrington, and former Pennsylvania state representative and Solebury Township Supervisor Helen Tai.

The NAACP invites people of all racial backgrounds interested in the new effort to reach out at buckscountynaacp@gmail.com. More information may be found at the chapter's Facebook page.