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Korte: systemic racism exists in America and to deny it is an affront to humanity

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The current climate of unrest is the result of tribal politics and the inability or unwillingness to see the failures of our political culture.
– Virginia Korte

Racism has been part of the human experience from the beginning of recorded time; our oldest texts document racially motivated wars and death. To pretend that racism doesn’t exist inside every American institution is to deny this history.

Recently, during a candidate forum, I was asked if I thought systemic discrimination existed inside the Scottsdale Police Department and I was the only candidate to say, ‘yes.’ I am and will always be an ardent supporter of the Scottsdale’s Police Department and the chief.

I will also always be honest with you, the voters and the men and women who bravely serve in police department. That honesty means I will acknowledge both the good and the bad about every city institution. Anything less means that I am permitting politics, not truth, to guide me during my mayoral candidacy.

The current climate of unrest is the result of tribal politics and the inability or unwillingness to see the failures of our political culture.

Change is needed and we must begin by admitting the truth about where we are. Honest and direct dialogue is mandatory; it is what you deserve and what you always can expect from me when you elect me Scottsdale’s next Mayor. Conversations can make changes. Leadership Matters.

Editor’s note: Ms. Korte is a member of Scottsdale City Council in pursuit of the seat of mayor this August