Talks Not Raids: Transparency on M.A.R.C.H.

“ Reports from businesses and community leaders about fear-inducing raids are concerning and legislation will help city officials assess a more responsible path forward. I am proud to sponsor this much-needed legislation to shine a light on the M.A.R.C.H. Task Force and bring accountability to the process. ”

“ As a business owner who works to add to the vibrancy, education and advancement of our neighborhood; the M.A.R.C.H. on Friends and Lovers was not only extremely intimidating but undermined all the efforts we've put into community building. Organizations can regulate with respect, transparency and without intimidation. ”

“ We came to this country to create a better life for our family and our community. If a complaint is made against us, or we make a mistake, we have no problem collaborating with city agencies to cure any issues. When M.A.R.C.H. inspections occur, not only does it hurt us, but causes residents and patrons to mistrust enforcement officers. It’s a dream killer. ”

“ For too long M.A.R.C.H. has been a Stasi-like tool used to intimidate small business owners without recourse, often fining them out of existence and, losing jobs, investments and dreams while creating empty storefronts in the fallout. There is currently no way to contact or to find M.A.R.C.H., elected officials believe it no longer exists, meanwhile it operates in the shadows of our democracy. ”

“ We advocate for safety and preservation of grassroots cultural spaces through building relationships of trust with all stakeholders. Venues and artists most times have great relationships with their local officers at the precinct level, but when the MARCH task force appears -- with what is effectively a scary raid -- it wreaks havoc on valuable and vulnerable community spaces. We need talks not raids. ”