WASHINGTON –Today, Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) released the following statement regarding the unrest and violence across the country:

“The excessive use of force experienced by George Floyd was unconscionable and inhumane.  A week of peaceful protests and an outpouring of grief and pain laid bare the deep-seated frustration of a people who have gone unheard and undervalued for generations,” said Rep. Fudge.  “We must not let violent and looting detractors muddy the message and our demands for justice.

“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. defined a riot as ‘the language of the unheard.’  America, can you hear us now?  Time and again, we are forced to witness Black men and women killed by the very people who have a duty to protect and serve us.  We want America to live up to its promise for all her citizens. Every American deserves dignity, value and respect.  Justice can no longer be delayed or denied. 

“Justice is when Black America is humanely treated by law enforcement, has equal access to education and economic opportunity, and full access to the ballot box.  I call upon every legislator in this country – from village councils to the Congress of the United States – to take immediate action to outlaw the use of choke holds, whether by arm or by knee.  Especially as I read today, the city of Minneapolis alone has rendered 44 suspects unconscious with this tactic since 2015.  It must end.”

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