[Feb 1, 2023] Statement on the killing of Tyre Nichols
Families for Freedom extends our sincerest form of love to the Nichols family and the Black community; It saddens us that this is the fate of another Black man; but also another story many will overlook. At this time, we must say the names of Amadou Diallo, Aqua Salmon, Malcolm Ferguson, Patrick Dorismond, Sean Bell, Oscar Grant, Michael Brown, George Floyd, and many other Black males who are subject to murder at the hands of police officers. The common denominator is the policy and practices infiltrating the criminal justice system, allowing this inhumane behavior to disrupt the lives of many individuals. These are recurring incidents dating back to 1870. How can we ensure the Black community is safe? How can we protect our community? Tyre Nichols was not only a human being but a son, father, brother, skateboarder, and photographer; His life mattered just as much as those in law enforcement.
Like many around the world, Families for Freedom shares feelings of sorrow, outrage, and frustration. We condemn all violent treatment inflicted upon Black individuals by law enforcement. We will channel our anger into calling for a complete dismantling of the police systems that oppress our people. Time and time again, we’ve seen how systemic tactics, such as the over-surveillance of Black bodies, perpetuate cycles of violence and an overall disregard for human life. Following the release of the horrific video on Friday evening, many people across the country were exposed once again to the violent treatment of Black bodies. Unfortunately, this is a stark commonality in the United States and this is concerning no matter the race of the person responsible for the violence.
Families for Freedom stands in solidarity with Tyre Nichols’ family and anyone who wishes to express their opposition to police violence through collective action. We will continue to use our platform to speak out against inhumane acts of police brutality and advocate for individuals subjected to systemic violence.
