The Equal Rights Commission (ERC) of Milwaukee convened on July 25, 2025, to discuss community concerns regarding the potential implementation of facial recognition technology (FRT) by the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD). The meeting featured public testimony, with numerous community members expressing strong opposition to the technology, citing concerns over civil rights violations and the lack of transparency in the decision-making process.

Commissioner Johnson opened the meeting by acknowledging the public speakers and emphasizing the importance of including their testimonies in the public record. The ERC received written statements from nine individuals, which will also be added to the record. The commissioners expressed a commitment to ongoing dialogue with the community and highlighted the need for public engagement in decision-making processes.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the rationale behind the MPD's interest in FRT. Several commissioners questioned the necessity of the technology, especially given recent data indicating a decrease in crime rates. They expressed concerns that the MPD's justification for pursuing FRT—primarily that it would make their jobs easier—was insufficient and lacked a solid basis in protecting community rights.

Commissioner Cook and others emphasized the importance of community input, noting that many residents had provided thoughtful and researched feedback. They encouraged continued public participation and reiterated that the community has mechanisms to influence police procedures through the common council.

The ERC also discussed the procedural aspects of making recommendations to the council and the mayor regarding FRT. Some commissioners expressed frustration over the need for additional meetings, arguing that the community's opposition to the technology was clear and that a recommendation to oppose it should be made promptly. However, others stressed the importance of gathering comprehensive evidence and ensuring that any recommendation is well-supported.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further investigate the implications of FRT and to engage with the community in a meaningful way. The ERC plans to continue its discussions in future meetings, with the next one scheduled for August, where they will consider formal recommendations based on the gathered testimonies and research. The commissioners reiterated their dedication to protecting civil rights and ensuring that community voices are heard in the decision-making process.