Who is Talauna Reed? 'F**k the police' activist who called cops pigs is appointed to Wa school board
WASHINGTON, DC: Talauna Reed, a former council candidate who has now been made a school district board member, reportedly told a crowd of protestors in 2021, "f*** the police," after George Floyd's death. "I find it amazing that those pigs can sit there and watch us quietly discuss what we want this state to turn into. It astounds me. And they aren't interested until we start crying. So before I begin, destroy everything in this f****** city until they comply with our wishes,” she told her cheering audience, according to KTTH.
As per The Olympian, Reed was formally sworn in as an Olympia School District board member on Thursday, October 27, making her the first Black member of the board. After that, comments from the public followed, both criticizing the board's choice and appreciating them for including Reed's viewpoint. A group called the Olympia Fairness Alliance, made up of parents, teachers and locals, had already criticized Reed for her criminal record and comments she had made in the past on police and other topics. However, six of the eight speakers, during the open forum on October 27 only had positive things to say. Reed is a woman of “outstanding character” and bravery, according to Derek Hull, a father in the district.
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Some participants voiced doubts about Reed's credentials and requested a statement from the board regarding her appointment to the board. According to the Jolt News, Felicia, a member of the public, remarked, "I'm standing here to express not only shock but serious concern that each of you saw fit to select Miss Reed to a school board petition." She said that Reed has a lengthy criminal past that dates back at least 20 years. "The fundamental rule of conduct that is expected of our students is not supported by her behavior. I beg all of you to think twice about this appointment. I respectfully beg that you consider the ramifications for our pupils who need examples of character, honesty, integrity, and good behavior," Felicia said.
In her defense, Reed remarked, "Thank you for coming, and thank you to everyone who participated in the public comment period, including those who disagree with me. Everybody has the right to that. We are entitled to object." After taking the oath, Reed said to the board and the public, "I have a right to resist police violence. I'm just thrilled to be working on this project and taking part in it. I have a stake in this neighborhood. Because the city can teach you so much, I am a part of it and I care about it, especially for the kids." Reed will hold the position of District 2 Director for the OSD for a year through December 2023.
Talauna Reed was just appointed to the Olympia School Board. In July of 2021, she railed against cops and called for protesters to “tear everything up in this f****** city.” (WARNING: Language) pic.twitter.com/WgkoUJmvLI
— Jason Rantz on KTTH Radio (@jasonrantz) October 22, 2022