The Citizens Police Oversight Commission (CPOC) in Philadelphia has recently named Ewuare Osayande, a seasoned civil rights attorney, as its Deputy Executive Director. Bringing over thirty years of experience in racial justice advocacy and public policy reform, Osayande is set to play a pivotal role in advancing the commission’s mission to bolster police oversight.
"Ewuare Osayande has dedicated his life to challenging systemic injustice and advocating for transformative change," said CPOC Executive Director Tonya McClary. Osayande has a history of commitment to police accountability that dates back to his college years, when he led a march demanding justice for the police killing of a teenager—an event that gained significant media attention and sparked national dialogue on the issue of racial equity.
According to the announcement on Philadelphia's official website, Osayande’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. His work has included helping to form Newark’s police oversight initiatives in the '90s, teaching at various prestigious institutions on systemic racism, and leading internal equity policy revamps as Chief Diversity Officer for the American Friends Service Committee.
Osayande is also recognized for his scholarly contributions, authoring several books exploring the intersections of race, class, and gender. His policy initiatives aimed to directly confront racial discrimination, including enforcement of the federal executive order on police reform and early litigation under California’s CROWN Act. His recent role with New Jersey Legal Services involved representing clients in housing and eviction cases, further underscoring his commitment to justice for marginalized communities.
In his new role, Osayande will support the commission's efforts to enforce stronger police oversight, develop policies that are both just and equitable, and center the voices of those communities most impacted by policing practices. "In this role, I’m honored to stand with the people of Philadelphia and continue the work that has defined my life,” Osayande said. The CPOC is an independent agency tasked with ensuring transparent and just administration of criminal justice in Philadelphia, an effort that Osayande will now help to lead.
