MINNEAPOLIS — Editor's note: The debate has since concluded. Check back for an archived version at the top of this article.
Community groups and leaders met Tuesday night to debate Question 2 on the Minneapolis city ballot, which will decide whether or not the city will replace the police department with a Department of Public Safety.
The Minneapolis NAACP and the Minnesota League of Women's Voters partnered to host the event at Minneapolis North High School. The event was moderated by WCCO Radio host Jearlyn Steele and broadcast by Minneapolis Community Network.
Organizers and those participating in the debate said they hope the discussion provides clarity and clears up confusion over what the proposal will do.
New Salem Missionary Baptist Church's Rev. Jerry McAfee will debate in favor of the "no" vote. McAfee champions a church-led, community initiative that brings community leaders together with police to help prevent violence.
Debating in favor of the "yes" vote, is Minister JaNaé Bates, communications director for two community-focused organizations, ISAIAH and Yes 4 Minneapolis. Yes 4 Minneapolis was created in the days after the murder of George Floyd, and has consistently advocated for an amendment to the city charter to replace the Minneapolis police.
The full MCN debate live stream will be added to the top of this article after it airs.
MCN6 is a nonprofit network that amplifies MN Produced Content in Support of Building Strong Diverse Community. You can watch at Cable Channel 6 in the Twin Cities Metro Area, Roku, and online at MCN6.org.
After a weeks-long, back-and-forth discussion regarding the language to the proposed amendment, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled in favor of the city of Minneapolis and Yes 4 Minneapolis, allowing recently revised language already printed on ballots to remain as is.
Voters are invited to attend the debate at North High School, or stream it online. Masks are required for those who choose to attend in person.
The Minneapolis Municipal Election began Friday, Sept. 17 with early voting. To find your polling place on Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 2.), click here.
To see a full list of candidates and questions that will appear on this year's ballot, click here.
To see what your specific ballot will look like, click here.