CONTACT: Rabbi Bonnie Margulis, Executive Director, 608-513-7121, wifaithvoices4justice@gmail.com

Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice is grateful at the triple guilty verdict against Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd.  We pray that George Floyd’s family is able to find some peace and some comfort in this verdict.

However, we are cognizant that, far too often, police are afforded a presumption of innocence when their use of force results in injury or death.  The verdict today is a victory for justice, but we cannot allow it to be an isolated incident. We hope that this verdict reflects a sea change in the ways that this country is willing to value black lives and hold police accountable for their actions against black bodies.

Let us celebrate this victory while also continuing the fight to hold police responsible for their actions: ban the use of chokeholds, knee holds, and other deadly use of force; end qualified immunity; and bring about a justice system that is truly just and equitable; one that serves and protects all citizens equally, regardless of their color. One important first step is to press our Senators to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

There is still much work to be done. Let us move forward, together.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email