5 years after George Floyd's murder, Oakland's MACRO offers a different kind of response

This Sunday marks five years since George Floyd's murder, a pivotal event that led to widespread protests against police violence and racial injustice. In response, Oakland launched the Mobile Assistance Community Responders of Oakland (MACRO) in 2022 to manage non-violent, non-emergency calls. The program has expanded to include 28 staff members trained in crisis response and community engagement. In 2024, MACRO responded to 2,500 incidents, showcasing its commitment to reducing the burden on Oakland's 911 system. Despite its successes, MACRO faces limitations, such as not being able to enter homes or respond to armed situations, which has drawn some criticism.

Community members view the team's empathetic approach as a crucial way to build trust within the community. Oakland Fire Chief Damon Covington believes MACRO could become a cornerstone of the city’s public safety framework over the next several years. This initiative reflects a broader trend toward reimagining public safety, even as challenges remain in fulfilling its promises.