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free the people rochester

abolition

liberation

freedom

resistance

power

Since our inception on May 30th, 2020, when thousands took to the streets, FTP has built on the legacy of black liberation in Rochester, New York.

Are you ready to build power with us?

Who We Are

Free the People ROC is a grassroots organization working to build a world without police, prisons, or punishment. Rooted in Rochester, NY, we organize for Black liberation and grassroots power building through political education, mutual aid, and direct action.

FEATURED: FTP IN THE NEWS

Daniel Prude died after police encounter 5 years ago sparking protests: Look back in photos

Three Local & Statewide Efforts Since Rochester Protested the Murder of Daniel Prude That Can Help Visionaries Chart a Course Through Chaos

Photos: Free the People Roc rally held in Rochester

COMING SOON

2025 ABOLITIONIST CONFERENCE

This September, we'll be hosting our first ever Abolitionist Conference. This full day event will feature prominent speakers, captivating workshops, and incredible opportunities for relationship building. Input your information to stay in the loop.

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1. Makes sure mental health crises are treated as a public health issue, not a public safety threat.

2. Removes police as the default first responders to address mental health needs.

3. Creates Councils of people with lived experience and mental health experts dedicated to the goals of de-escalation; trauma-informed, culturally-competent care; and avoiding contacts with the criminal legal system.

Our Coalition Partners:

OUR PRIORITIES

Abolition Policy

Local and statewide advocacy for divestment from policing and incarceration
Develop and advocate for community-based alternatives for public safety
Advance Daniel's Law to create non-police responses to mental health crises

Mutual Aid

Redistribute resources directly to community members
Support urgent needs through solidarity, not charity
Build networks of care that sustain us beyond crisis

Political Education

Host webinars, educational series, workshops, teach-ins, and public forums
Create accessible content on liberation and resistance
Equip our communities with knowledge to act

Coalition Building

Unite grassroots organizations around shared goals
Bridge struggles across neighborhoods for housing justice, food access, education equity, tenants' rights, and other critical issues
Build long-term power through collective action