FAQs
Do You Support Defunding The Police?
No. New Blue’s theory of change focuses on creating reform from within the system. We support officers who want to create a law enforcement system that works for all Americans.
Is New Blue “woke” ?
No, given that the organization is led by former and current law enforcement, New Blue is not inherently aligned with the "woke" ideology, and it does not align with any specific ideological or political stance. Instead, it represents a particular approach to reforming and improving policing from within the system.
At its core, New Blue believes that the most promising pathway to legitimacy for law enforcement is through supporting existing officers in aligning police policy and practices with the needs of their communities. This approach seeks to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement while building trust within the communities they serve.
Supporters of New Blue advocate for a balanced perspective that values the important and often dangerous work that law enforcement officers do while also pushing for meaningful advancements that improve policing and foster community trust.
Bad Cops or Bad System? What’s your take on #ACAB?
"Bad Cops or Bad System?" is an important question, and from the perspective of New Blue, we acknowledge that both elements play a role, but our focus leans toward recognizing the systemic issues within policing.
Firstly, it's essential to acknowledge that bad cops do exist. These individuals are complacent and are often comfortable with the way things are. They may find ways to justify broken parts of the system and may not uphold the highest standards of ethics and accountability. New Blue does not condone or defend such behavior.
However, our organization believes that the system itself, including policies, practices, and procedures, is most flawed. The majority of police officers we've met are genuinely good people dedicated to public service. They are often working within an outdated and broken system of policing that can make it difficult for them to effect positive change.
New Blue's mission is to address these systemic problems and work toward comprehensive reform in policing. We believe that by improving the system, we can create an environment where the majority of officers who are dedicated to serving their communities can thrive, and where bad cops are held accountable and reformed or removed from the profession. Our goal is to create a more just, equitable, and effective law enforcement system that benefits both officers and the communities they serve.
Is New Blue a non-profit? How are you funded?
Police For, Inc (DBA: “New Blue”) (EIN:85-1417931) is exempt from federal income tax under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501(c)(3). Donors may be able to deduct contributions they make to our organization under IRC Section 170. New Blue receives/ plans to receive:
Philanthropic Gifts from Partners: Many organizations, individuals, and foundations that share our vision of enhancing law enforcement and strengthening community-police relations provide generous philanthropic donations. These gifts enable us to implement various programs and initiatives designed to support law enforcement reform, community engagement, and officer training.
Government Funding: In some cases, government agencies may allocate funding for specific projects or programs that align with our goals. This government funding can be directed toward initiatives related to recruiting, training, and retaining police officers who are committed to implementing positive changes within their departments and communities.
How long is the fellowship? Where does it take place?
Our Fellowship is 9 months in length. Aside from induction and graduation, the fellowship takes place in a virtual environment, which allows our impact to reach communities across the nation.
Is the fellowship paid? How can fellows use their scholarship?
Our Fellows are offered between $1000 and $5000 microgrant that they use to bring their solution to life. Fellows work with PhD researchers and take courses on impact measurement to ensure their projects meet their fullest potential.