Yolo People Power is a grassroots network of individuals committed to an equitable world and
our home county of Yolo, California. We seek to dismantle systemic racism and build human
networks of mutual respect and support. We champion preventive and restorative practices
that strive to help all parties and reduce harm. We promote public systems that adapt to align
with evidence of effectiveness.  Yolo People Power engages in this work through research,
public education, community dialogue, policy advocacy, and direct action.

Our Beginnings
In March 2017, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) asked its members to meet with
local law enforcement to determine if there was collaboration with US Immigration and
Customs Enforcement. Shortly after ACLU’s call, CA passed its sanctuary state bill, which addressed
ACLU’s concerns, and the Winters and Woodland groups disbanded. The Davis group remained
interested in how to increase transparency and accountability in policing. While researching
oversight models, the Picnic Day 5 incident occurred. Ununiformed officers in an unmarked
car provoked a street fight which resulted in five young people of color being charged with
assaulting officers. People Power members attended the court proceedings. The prosecutor
used circumstantial evidence to portray these five young adults as criminals. For many of
our group, this was our local watershed moment of witnessing unequal justice. We
realized that in order to transform our public safety system, our scope must address area
policing, county prosecution, availability of treatment and diversion programs, the court and
detention systems, and state wide criminal justice reforms.

Our Accomplishments
Yolo People Power was instrumental in the creation of the City of Davis Police
Accountability Commission, the recrafted role of the Independent Police Auditor, the
adoption of the city Surveillance Ordinance. Our Time for the Nine campaign created the Department of Social Services and Housing and got homeless outreach moved from the Police Department to the newly created department. We monitor the Yolo County Community Corrections Partnership
and many of our members have worked to try and elect a District Attorney that represents our
values.

Our Future
We invite residents from throughout the county to join and help direct our work.