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Scratch William Parker's name from the idea list, or so said the LAPD Commission today, who voted to oppose to name the new LAPD headquarters with his name, which stirs up a controversial racist past.
Instead, Councilmember Richard Alarcon wants to name the building after Mayor Tom Bradley. Here is the councilman's take on his bio:
Tom Bradley arrived in Los Angeles in 1924, the son of sharecroppers and the grandson of slaves. In 1940, he became a member of the Los Angeles Police Department and subsequently became a lieutenant, the highest rank held by an African-American police officer at that time. When he was elected Mayor, he opened the doors of City Hall - his staff and administrative appointees represented the rich cultural fabric of Los Angeles. He worked to attract business to the City and his policies helped spearhead the resurgence of Downtown. During his 20 years as Mayor he showed his commitment to fair law enforcement and community partnership with the Police Department.
