Indiana State Police troopers will be required to use body cameras by next spring. It’s one of a number of steps announced by Governor Eric Holcomb Tuesday, as part of his larger strategy to address equity and inclusion.
Holcomb said the ongoing pandemic has underscored racial disparities that have existed for decades. “I admit, I can’t put myself in a Black person’s shoes,” Holcomb said. “I can’t fully appreciate the everyday indignities and slights our friends and associates have had to deal with, let alone the fear of some things I’ve never had to thing about for a second. So I’ve spent considerable time since Mr. [George] Floyd’s death connecting with and listening to Black leaders and stakeholders.”
Holcomb is also ordering a third-party review of both the Indiana State Police and the curriculum of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. “We’ll look at areas like use of force, de-escalation training, and implicit bias training, and I’m committed to working with our legislature to add more civilian representation to the ILEA board itself,” the governor said.
Holcomb is also creating a new cabinet position of Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity Officer to address barriers within state government. Another priority will be closing education and workforce training gaps. The governor is asking the Commission for Higher Education, Department of Workforce Development, and the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet for specific recommendations. He’s also calling for the state’s new secretary of education to prioritize minority teacher recruitment. Holcomb also said Hoosiers will be able to track the state’s progress with a new Public Disparity Data Portal from the Management Performance Hub.
The governor promised to be a “barrier buster” and called on all Hoosiers to help. “I expect some discomfort in the months and years ahead, but I’m telling you, it is oh so worth it,” he said. “I ask all Hoosiers to join me in a spirit of openness and thoughtfulness and progress. That may mean questioning long-held assumptions. It has for me.”
Holcomb said he agrees with the sentiments that Black lives matter, as well as Black livelihoods.
