Photo: Memphis Police Department
Washington, DC – National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) released the following statement on the passing of Memphis father, Tyre Nichols, as a result of police brutality:
We are saddened by the tragic passing of Tyre Nichols due to abuse of power and police brutality. Nichols—a son, a father, and skateboard lover—was headed home when he was pulled over for an alleged traffic violation. During this traffic stop Nichols was tased, pepper sprayed, and brutally beaten by officers which resulted in his untimely death.
“As a nation, we must speak out against abuse of power and police brutality. As legislators, we must enact legislation to stop these violent and too often deadly police interactions from happening. We must encourage unity and assist in restoring faith in those who are put in place to serve and protect us,” said Rep. Laura Hall, (AL) NBCSL President.
In 2020, Senator Brenda Gilmore (TN) introduced and NBCSL passed RESOLUTION LJE-20-21, the resolution in part calls for Congressional action to ensure through, timely, and independent federal investigations of alleged law enforcement violations across the country, and to particularly work with and identify local law enforcement agencies that may have a cultural or institutional issues that lead to strife with the communities they serve. In addition, NBCSL also commits to work with its social justice partners to seek legal remedies for unlawful killings of African Americans by police officers, and believes that a positive relationship between the local law enforcement agencies and the communities that they represent is essential in our communities, and officer involved shootings can irreparably harm these relationships.
NBCSL stands with the Nichols’ family in seeking justice for Tyre. We fully support holding all officers involved accountable for the death of Tyre. We send condolences to Nichols’ family and those who loved him. As legislators, we will do our part in our respective state houses to fight against abuse of power and police brutality and fight for justice in policing.
SAY HIS NAME—Tyre Nichols.
NBCSL is the nation’s premier organization exclusively serving the interests of African American state legislators. With more than 700 members collectively representing over 60 million Americans, NBCSL serves as a national network, advocate and catalyst for public policy innovation, information exchange, and joint action on critical issues. Visit www.nbcsl.org to learn more.
