(IntegrityTimes.com) – Cambridge, Massachusetts is home to prestigious Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and has long been known to lean left. In response to the far left Defund the Police movement, Cambridge has rolled out a new system for social workers to answer some 911 calls.
The program, known as Community Assistance Response and Engagement or CARE, is expected to begin working in the community sometime in July. While many have heralded the program as a kinder way to handle mental health calls, others have criticized it for being dangerous for the social workers.
The job description for the social workers in the CARE program indicates a college degree is not required, but experience in crisis intervention is. The pay is over $30 an hour and applicants are required to express solidarity with left-wing rhetoric concerning anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). All five members of the current CARE team have extensive backgrounds as first responders or social workers. The team’s director Liz Speakman says that if any members run into trouble on calls, they can simply radio for additional assistance.
The Defund the Police movement has resulted in decreased support for police, both in the community and in municipal funding. Many locations that have reduced their police force have experienced increases in crime. Despite its beautiful old buildings and elite educational institutions, Cambridge actually has a violent crime rate that is 14% higher than the national average. Cambridge Police Patrol Officers Association President Chris Sullivan has commented that while he supports the program the CARE team will need proper training.
Cambridge’s Vice Mayor Marc McGovern has publicly said that some 911 calls simply do not require police. Others have pointed out that some people who need help may be uncomfortable with law enforcement. While it is true that often drug addicts or the mentally ill are more vulnerable than dangerous, sometimes these situations can be volatile.
Many are concerned that CARE’s form of compassionate assistance may be more appropriate for an office than on the street. However, the team has extensive local support and there are high hopes that this may be just what Cambridge needs. McGovern has confidently expressed hope that other cities will implement similar programs.
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