While the conviction of Kim Potter in Daunte Wright’s tragic death is an important step in the road toward upholding accountability, it’s not sufficient. The conviction on both charges of manslaughter will not erase the pain that Daunte’s family and community have experienced.
The circumstances of Wright’s death were horrific. They illustrate the need for new approaches to public safety–especially for vulnerable Black and Brown communities too long denied the resources necessary for keeping themselves safe.
So, while redesigning public safety must begin with accountability, today’s conviction is not a cause for celebration. It will not bring Daunte Wright back to his family. And should we fail to deliver better systems to communities like Brooklyn Center around the country, we will be forced to hope for accountability without ever glimpsing justice. Our thoughts are with Wright’s family, friends, and loved ones, as well as the Minnesota community, and everyone affected by the aftermath of this killing.
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About Center for Policing Equity: As a research and action organization, Center for Policing Equity (CPE) produces analyses identifying and reducing the causes of racial disparities in law enforcement. Using evidence-based approaches to social justice, we use data to create levers for social, cultural and policy change. Center for Policing Equity also holds a 501(c)3 status.