Collaboration Isn’t Just Beneficial: It's Essential for Overcoming Legal Oppression

As we reflect on 2024, all of us at BALT want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of our incredible collaborators. This past year, like every year, has been a testament to the power of partnership. 

At the heart of Baltimore Action Legal Team’s mission lies the unwavering commitment of our exceptional partners. Since 2022, we have been honored to call Penn North Recovery Center and Citizens Policing Project steadfast collaborators. Penn North, with its rich legacy of over three decades, embodies resilience. Their dedication extends beyond the individual, nurturing entire communities towards recovery and equality. Citizens Policing Project, a beacon of advocacy since 2018, champions the voices of marginalized residents, ensuring their concerns and priorities are at the forefront of police reform efforts. As we reflect on our journey, we are endlessly grateful to CPP and Penn North for allowing us to weave deeper connections within our communities and deliver essential legal services to those who need them most. 

2024 welcomed support from collaborations new and old. Our ongoing collaboration with Open Justice Baltimore and the Office of the Public Defender have significantly advanced our legal claims for transparency and justice in police departments. In 2024, our relationship building with local schools, like Harford Heights and Liberty Elementary, has further deepened our outreach efforts, allowing us to share vital free legal resources with families that need them most. Our emerging partnership with Baltimore Safe Haven stands as another thrilling milestone—one that will pave the way for the new legal services we are providing in 2025, specifically focused on name changes for members of the Trans community. 

Lastly, we extend our gratitude to the many collaborators and organizations, including the National Lawyers’ Guild, Baltimore Artists Against Apartheid and the Hopkins Justice Collective, who have strengthened our rapid response efforts. We look forward to continuing these collaborations and embarking on new endeavors, standing together as our community faces new attacks that require bold responses. 

Thank you for believing in the power of partnership and thank you to the following collaborators:

Baltimore Artists Against Apartheid, Baltimore Safe Haven, Baltimore Unity Hall, Center for Criminal Justice Reform at UBalt, Civil Rights Corps, Citizens Policing Project, Harford Heights Elementary School, Hopkins Justice Collective, Jubilee Arts, Law Office of Natalie A. Finegar, Liberty Elementary School, Life After Release, Maryland Legal Aid, Maryland Youth Justice Coalition, Movement Law Lab, National Bail Fund Network, National Lawyers’ Guild, Office of the Public Defender, Open Justice Baltimore, Palestine Legal, Penn North Recovery Center, Public Justice Center, Red Emma’s Bookstore Coffeehouse, Silver Spring Justice Coalition, Trans Rights Advocacy Coalition, Vanderbilt Law School First Amendment Clinic, Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs

Goodbye X. Hello Bluesky!

BALT has officially left X (formerly Twitter) and joined Blueksy!

Over the past few years, we’ve found ourselves increasingly uncomfortable existing on X as the platform has transformed into an echo chamber for far-right conservatism, racism, antisemitism, xenophobia and divisive ideologies that undermine our work and the very people we strive to uplift. We can’t continue to engage with a platform that privileges harmful rhetoric and stifles the voices of our communities.

As an organization that centers Black leadership and advocates for justice and equity, we are committed to using communication tools that align with our vision for a Baltimore where Black people can exercise their power and determine their own justice.

Follow us on Bluesky at @baltlegal.bsky.social!

Be sure to visit our website at https://www.baltimoreactionlegal.org/

We’re still on Instagram and Facebook @baltlegal!

As we find alternative avenues for communication and advocacy, we remain dedicated to fostering an environment where true justice can flourish outside the constraints of platforms that fuel harm.

How Can We Support Our Community Post Election?

Sent in our 11/12/24 newsletter:

Action does not only happen on election years...

We, like many other Baltimoreans, are mourning the results of the 2024 election. We fear for the rights of our LGBTQIA+ siblings, the security of our immigrant neighbors, and the safety of those outside of Maryland without safe, legal access to abortion care. 

While these concerns are at the forefront of our mind after November 6, they are far from new issues. The interconnectivity of these issues and their deep roots in America highlight the importance of the fact that action cannot only be taken during election time; healthy and strong movements rely on our support ESPECIALLY in non-election years.  

Investing in community is the best way to combat our feelings of helplessness and disconnection. Supporting local immigrant justice organizations or Black journalism countering misinformation is more important than ever now.

And of course, your BALT donations support us in providing vital Know Your Rights workshops, posting bail, and holding police accountable in Maryland courts.

We can get through anything as a collective.

As we have fought in the past, we will continue to fight today and tomorrow!

Thank you for being in community with us during this difficult time.

Election wins in Baltimore:

• Question 1- Reproductive rights are now protected in Maryland’s constitution! This is an incredibly meaningful time to donate to Baltimore Abortion Fund as we anticipate people traveling to Maryland for access to reproductive care.

• Question E- Baltimore City now has full control of its police department for the first time since 1860. This is a crucial step towards police accountability in Baltimore! 

• Question G- The state is investing in reparations for those disproportionately impacted by the state’s prohibition of cannabis.

• Question H- Sinclair failed in their attempt to involve themselves in city politics! Baltimore City Council will continue to represent 14 districts.

While silver linings feel hard to grasp right now, Baltimore has a lot to celebrate this election and we are proud to see many hard fought battles won this election season. 

Post Election Resources:

• 10 ways to be prepared and grounded now that Trump has won

• Latinx Therapist Network resources for healing

• Safety & Security Training | Capacitación de seguridad y protección

BALT's 2024 General Election Ballot Breakdown!

Statewide questions-

Maryland Question 1, Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment 

The proposed amendment confirms an individual’s fundamental right to an individual’s own reproductive liberty and provides the State may not, directly or indirectly, deny, burden, or abridge the right unless justified by a compelling State interest achieved by the least restrictive means.

Question 1 Explained: 

-Protects abortion access in Maryland.

City Bond Questions

Question A, Affordable Housing Bond Issue

Question A is for the purpose of authorizing the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $20,000,000 to be used for the planning, developing, executing, and making operative the Affordable Housing Program of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, including, but not limited to, the acquisition, by purchase, lease, condemnation or any other legal means, of land or property in the City of Baltimore; the payment of any and all costs and expenses incurred in connection with or incidental to the acquisition and management of the land or property; the payment of any and all costs and expenses incurred for or in connection with relocating and removing persons or other legal entities displaced by the acquisition of the land or property, and the disposition of land and property for such purposes, such costs to include but not limited to rental payment and home purchase assistance, housing counseling and buyer education, assistance, and activities to support the orderly and sustainable planning, preservation, rehabilitation, and development of economically diverse housing in City neighborhoods; support the Affordable Housing Trust Fund; support the elimination of unhealthful, unsanitary or unsafe conditions, lessening density, eliminating obsolete or other uses detrimental to the public welfare or otherwise removing or preventing the spread of blight or deterioration in the City of Baltimore; and for doing all things necessary, proper or expedient in connection therewith.

Question A Explained: 

-Allows the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $20,000,000 for the city’s affordable housing program. 
-This money can be used to purchase land for new affordable housing.

-The money can also be used for rental assistance programs or grants that support affordable housing.

Question B, School Bond Issue

Question B is for the purpose of authorizing the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $55,000,000 to be used for the acquisition of land or property to construct and erect new school buildings, athletic and auxiliary facilities; and for additions and improvements to or modernization, demolition or reconstruction of existing school buildings or facilities; and to equip all buildings to be constructed, erected, improved, modernized, or reconstructed; and for doing any and all things necessary, proper or expedient in connection therewith

Question B Explained: 
-Allows the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $55,000,000 to acquire land or property to build new schools, and improve existing school buildings.
-This funding is intended to support Baltimore’s ongoing 21st Century School initiative.

Question C, Community and Economic Development Bond Issue
Question C is for the purpose of authorizing the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $50,000,000 to be used for, or in connection with, planning, developing, executing and making operative the community, commercial, and industrial economic development programs of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore; the development or redevelopment, including, but not limited to, the comprehensive renovation or rehabilitation of any land or property, or any rights or interests therein hereinbefore mentioned, in the City of Baltimore, and the disposition of land and property for such purposes; the elimination of unhealthful, unsanitary, or unsafe conditions, lessening density, eliminating obsolete or other uses detrimental to the public welfare or otherwise removing or preventing the spread of blight or deterioration in the City of Baltimore; the creation of healthy, sanitary, and safe, and green conditions in the City of Baltimore; and authorizing loans and grants therefore; making loans and grants to various projects and programs related to growing businesses in the City; attracting and retaining jobs; providing homeownership incentives and home repair assistance; authorizing loans and grants to various projects and programs related to improving cultural life and promotion of tourism in Baltimore City and the lending or granting of funds to any person or other legal entity to be used for or in connection with the rehabilitation, renovation, redevelopment, improvement or construction of buildings and structures to be used or occupied for residential or commercial purposes; and for doing any and all things necessary, proper or expedient in connection therewith.
Question C Explained: 
-Allows the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $50,000,000 for community, commercial, and industrial economic development programs.
-The money can be used to demolish blocks that are considered abandoned and/or unsafe and refurbish property that is considered usable.
-Makes loans and grants to projects and programs that grow business in the city or improves residential and commercial spaces. 

Question D, Public Infrastructure Bond Issue
Question D is for the purpose of authorizing the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $125,000,000 to be used for the development of public infrastructure owned or controlled by the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and the Enoch Pratt Free Library and for the construction and development of streets, bridges, courthouses, City buildings and facilities and related land, property, buildings, structures or facilities, for acquisition and development of property buildings owned and controlled by the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and the Enoch Pratt Library and public park or recreation land, property, buildings, structures or facilities including the acquisition of such by purchase, lease, condemnation or other legal means; for the construction, erection, renovation, alteration, reconstruction, installation, improvement and repair of existing or new buildings, structures, or facilities to be or now being used by or in connection with the operations, function and activities of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, the Enoch Pratt Free Library, public parks and recreational programs; for the construction and development of streets, bridges, courthouses, city office buildings, police stations, fire stations, solid waste facilities, information technology, and public park and recreational and related land property and buildings; for the acquisition and installation of trees, for tree planting programs and for the equipping of any and all existing and new buildings, structures, and facilities authorized to be constructed, renovated, altered or improved by this Ordinance; and for doing any and all things necessary, proper or expedient in connection therewith.

Question D Explained:
-Allows the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore to borrow up to $125,000,000 to develop public infrastructure owned or controlled by the  City.

-May be used to refurbish or build new streets, City buildings, libraries, and Parks and Rec spaces.
-Mayor and City Council can use this bond to improve all public owned infrastructure, including a police station. 

City Charter questions

Question E, Police Department Charter Amendment 
Question E is for the purpose of establishing the Baltimore City Police Department as an agency of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore. The Police Commissioner is established as the head of the Department and is appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation under Art. IV, Sec. 6 (a) of the Charter. The Commissioner's powers are enumerated and include determining and establishing the form and organization of the Department; assigning staff and resources, instituting systems for evaluations of members and setting policy with respect to the general operations of the Department.
The purpose and powers of the Department are also determined. The Department shall have the duty to preserve the peace, detect and prevent crime, enforce the laws of the State and the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore as well as apprehend and arrest individuals who violate or are lawfully accused of violating the law. The Department will preserve the order at public places but must discharge its duties and responsibilities with dignity and in a manner that will inspire public confidence and respect.
The duties of police officers are also established and the procedure for the creation of police districts is established.

Question E Explained: 
-This would make BPD a City entity as opposed to a state-controlled entity (which it is now). This is a critical step towards police accountability.
-Baltimore City has not had full control of its police department since January 1860.

-Currently, City Council cannot make any laws that affects the City police department.

Question F, Inner Harbor Park Charter Amendment

Question F is for the purpose of amending the provision dedicating for public park uses the portion of the city that lies along the Northwest and South Shores of the Inner Harbor, south of Pratt Street to the water's edge, east of Light Street to the water's edge, and north of the Key Highway to the water's edge, from the World Trade Center around the shoreline of the Inner Harbor including Rash Field with a maximum of 4.5 acres north of an easterly extension of the south side of Conway Street plus access thereto to be used for eating places, commercial uses, multifamily residential development and off-street parking with the areas used for multifamily dwellings and off-street parking as excluded from the area dedicated as a public park or for public benefit.

Question F Explained: 

-Redevelopment plans for Harborplace. 

-This would add retail and green space, along with 900 apartment units and parking garages.

-Could smell like gentrification. We sure do hope these apartments will include affordable housing. 

Question G, Community Reinvestment and Reparations Fund Charter Amendment

Question G is for the purpose establishing a continuing, non-lapsing Community Reinvestment and Reparations Fund, to be used exclusively to support the work of the Community Reinvestment and Reparations Commission to the extent that the work of the commission is within the scope of the use limitations in § 1-322 {"Community Reinvestment and Repair"} of the State Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Article. The Mayor and City Council are authorized, by ordinance, to provide for the oversight, governance, and administration of the Fund.

Question G Explained: 

-This would allow for a portion of taxes on recreational cannabis to go towards helping those disproportionately impacted by the state’s prohibition on cannabis.

Question H, City Council Size Reduction Charter Amendment

Question H is for the purpose of amending Art. III, Sections 2 and 7 of the Charter to reduce the number of Baltimore City Council districts from 14 to 8. If the number of City Council districts is modified by an approved Charter amendment, the Mayor shall prepare a plan for Council redistricting based on the most recent census. The Mayor shall present the plan to the City Council not later than the first day of February of the first municipal election year following the approval of the Charter amendment.

Question H Explained: 

-This would cut the number of Baltimore City Council districts in half. Each City Council district member is elected to represent a geographic district in the city. 

-This is solely funded by Sinclair Media (ie FOX News), who also funded question K in 2022 regarding term limits.

-This is FOX involving themselves in local city politics.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Indigenous Peoples Day at BALT

Sent via our newsletter on 10/14/24- On this Indigenous Peoples' Day, we at BALT honor that we are on the ancestral lands of the Piscataway and Susquehannock tribes, who have nurtured this territory for generations. We recognize the resilience of Indigenous peoples, especially those who continue to call Baltimore City home. We stand in solidarity with them, honoring their cultures, histories, and ongoing struggles for recognition and justice. 

Today marks the penultimate day of Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15, which commemorates the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador, through to October 15.

The intersection of Indigenous People’s Day and Hispanic Heritage Month reveals a profound truth: these identities are inseparable. Historically, Hispanic people, like Black and Native communities, experience erasure as Indigenous peoples. White supremacy seeks to homogenize Hispanic identity, overshadowing hundreds of Indigenous cultures, languages, and religions throughout Latin America. Upon arriving in the U.S, many Indigenous Latinx people are stripped of their heritage and relegated to the "Hispanic” label.

As we celebrate the rich contributions of Hispanic heritage and Indigenous culture, we confront the unyielding presence of white supremacy that weaves through colonialism and racism. 

This month, BALT highlighted the legacy of Pedro Albizu Campos, esteemed attorney and president of the Nationalist Party, who relentlessly fought for Puerto Rico's independence from U.S. domination. His struggle resonates with Indigenous peoples across the Americas, reclaiming their narratives on a day once known as KKKolumbus Day.

This Indigenous People's Day, we carry the heavy weight of the ongoing genocide of Indigenous peoples in Palestine in our hearts. We remember Indigenous Andean rebel Túpac Amaru II, who before being beheaded made a final promise, “I will return and I will be millions.”

This Indigenous Peoples' Day, stand in solidarity with marginalized communities by donating to BALT's Bail Fund.  Thank you for joining us in our fight against colonialism and white supremacy in our collective struggle for justice and freedom.

1. Learn more about the lived history of Indigenous peoples in Baltimore City

2. Know whose land you’re on

3. Learn more about Puerto Rico’s struggle against U.S. domination

Maryland Information Act Compliance Board Rules in BALT's Favor; Montgomery County Police Department Violated MPIA

We are thrilled to announce that in our case against Montgomery County Police Department, it has been determined that MCPD violated the MPIA by denying inspection of records related to an incident to which police responded in March of 2023. 

The conclusion from the Maryland Information Act Compliance Board is as follows: 

"Based on our review of the information we have, including the submissions and the
records that were withheld, we find that the MCPD violated the PIA when it denied
inspection of the use of force, CAD, and incident reports, and the officers’ body worn
camera footage in their entirety. Section § 4-301 does not apply because the records are
not privileged or confidential “by law,” as provided in § 4-301(a)(1), and the MCPD has
not demonstrated—and we do not find—that inspection would be “contrary to” any law
outside of the PIA, as provided in § 4-301(a)(2). Section § 4-307 does not apply because
the records are not records of “welfare for an individual” as contemplated by that
exemption. The MCPD has failed to meet its burden to justify discretionary denial under
§ 4-351(a) on grounds that the records reveal protected investigative techniques and
procedures, as it has not provided a particularized factual basis for invoking that exemption
in that way. At the same time, we conclude that disclosure of the individual’s identity
would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy, thus the MCPD must blur
or redact the individual’s face from the body worn camera footage. We thus direct the
MCPD to disclose the records with redactions to the “medical or psychological
information,” the detained individual’s “personal information,” and the detained
individual’s face in the manner detailed above. This information is exempt from disclosure
under § 4-329(a)(1) and (2) and § 4-351(a)."

We at BALT believe that there is no accountability without transparency. We will not stand for police hiding crucial information regarding an incident that is clearly within the public interest. Justice does not happen in the dark, we will continue to demand access to public information under the MPIA.