George Voinovich: “we've heard all too often of situations in cities and towns across the country in which concerns over racial profiling…”

“we've heard all too often of situations in cities and towns across the country in which concerns over racial profiling are creating serious divisions between communities and law enforcement agencies. Despite the shared interest each have in fighting crime and making neighborhoods safer, mistrust and wariness stands in the way of cooperation. Today I introduced a bill entitled the ``Racial Profiling Education and Awareness Act of 2002'' that I believe will put us on the road to preventing problems caused by racial profiling and help begin reconciliation in communities torn apart by racial unrest connected to police-community relations. Rooted in the belief that education and dialogue are the most effective tools for bridging racial divides, my bill establishes a program within the Department of Justice to educate city leaders, police chiefs, and law enforcement personnel on the problems of racial profiling and the value of community outreach, as well as to recognize and disseminate information on ``best practice'' procedures for addressing police-community racial issues. My experience as mayor of Cleveland and governor of Ohio has taught me that reaching the hearts and minds of people is the most effective means of dealing with intolerance and the problems that result.…”