If you’ve been looking for a way to make a tangible impact on police practices in Philadelphia, there’s an opportunity knocking that you might want to grab. The Parker Administration and the City Council are making a call to action for folks to step up and throw their names into the hat to join the Citizen Police Oversight Commission (CPOC), as noted in a recent city announcement.

The CPOC is all about promoting justice and transparency when it comes to law enforcement, and this isn't just about watching from the sidelines. The appointed commissioners are going to be right in the thick of it, looking to elevate police conduct, scrutinize internal investigations, and bridge the gap between the community and the cops that serve them. The application window is open from August 1st till the 23rd and yes, City Council will be giving the thumbs up or down to the nominated candidates once the selection panel does its part.

For those wondering what the application process looks like, it’s handled by a selection panel that’s a mix of local government and community representation; three panelists are appointed by the City Council, and two by the Parker Administration itself. The panelists are not just any individuals; they come with a history of engagement and leadership in the community, embodying a shared commitment to social justice and reform.

The current roster on the panel as shared by the city, includes names like Anton Moore, who heads Unity in the Community and also sits on the Advisory Commission of African American Affairs; alongside Stanley Crawford of The Black Male Community Council of Philadelphia and Bilal Qayyum, say hi to Christina Vega, who fights the good fight as a community in school coordinator and domestic violence advocate and don't forget about Caroline Stack, polishing the legislative gears for Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., these names are more than just placeholders, they're symbols of hope and vectors for change in a city that seeks to redefine its relationship with those sworn to protect and serve.

So, if you’ve got the drive and believe you can bring something to the table in terms of improving policing in Philly, consider this your sign to step forward. Details and the application are available on the Philadelphia government's website.