How the LAPD Was Built: From Watts to SWAT, Born from White Supremacist Policing

How the LAPD Was Built: From Watts to SWAT, Born from White Supremacist Policing

The LAPD didn’t just evolve—it was engineered. In this episode, we break down how the Los Angeles Police Department was built on a foundation of white supremacy, with disturbing ties to the Ku Klux Klan and military-style control. Learn how LAPD leadership responded to the 1965 Watts Rebellion by creating America’s first SWAT team—modeled more like a Gestapo unit than a community safety force. We connect the dots between Jim Crow-era enforcement, political repression, and how “peacekeeping” in Black neighborhoods became war tactics. This isn’t just history—it’s the blueprint for modern policing across the country. Join the conversation as we uncover: • The KKK’s early influence in California law enforcement • How Daryl Gates and LAPD used Watts as justification to militarize • The role of COINTELPRO and surveillance on Black communities • How today’s SWAT tactics trace back to this moment in time Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most dangerous exports in American policing. 🎟️ Event: Reparations & Relaxation — July 14th https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reparations-and-rexation-tickets-1468265915879?aff=oddtdtcreator Join us at the Reparations and Relaxation event featuring Kamilah Moore and Tiffany Quarles for a powerful discussion on California reparations, followed by a sound bath led by Dwann B. 🔗 My website: dwannb.com 🛍️ Shop: dwannb.com/shop 📖 Book readings: breakthroughcards.com 🐦 Twitter: x.com/dwannb 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/dwannb 🎧 Patreon: patreon.com/dwannb

Dwann B