There has been a good deal of discussion about the value of the list lately, but it's clear to me this is a time when it plays a very important role in getting information out to the community. It can also play a very important role in educating public officials about what the public is thinking. So I encourage people to continue to post on this topic, and, especially important right now, seek out as many diverse opinions as possible. List members would be playing a very important role if they could solicit someone who HAS NOT participated on the list and encourage them to post so we can get some fresh perspective. This way we can continue to show how a list like this can bring new perspective to a community dialogue.
Here is a statement I put out after meeting this noon with Somali leaders: Our city has suffered a terrible and tragic loss. On behalf of all of Minneapolis I want to express my very deep sorrow to the family of the victim and to members of the Somali community. The most important goal we can all have right now is to gather as much information about the incident as possible, and to ensure that the community has the confidence that the investigation will be independent. Toward that end, the Hennepin County Sheriff is conducting an independent investigation. The public should report all information about this case directly to the Sheriff at (612) 348-3755. I just met with over 40 members of the Somali community to talk about the process and their concerns. We are working with Somali community organizations to make sure information is coming forward for the investigation I want to reassure all people in Minneapolis that this city will continue to be safe and respectful for every member of our community. I am fully aware of the fact that many people in the community do not see this as an isolated incident. Issues of race and mental illness, and the police, have been raised for some time and I want to make it clear I take these questions seriously and will take the steps necessary to ensure that all of the information comes forward and the investigation remains independent. R.T. Rybak _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
