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NYC Council Women’s Caucus faults charges against Minneapolis officers, call for budget cuts

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New York, New York– The New York City Council Women's Caucus have called for police budget cut to reduce abuse of authority and boost social welfare services.

"Knowing that our legal system perpetuates bias, Black and brown communities are rallying for justice across the United States. Though Derek Chauvin has been charged with second-degree murder, and J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane and Tou Thao have been charged with aiding and abetting in second-degree murder, we will not rest until these men are convicted and sentenced for Floyd's death. Our advocacy in the fight against police brutality and white supremacy cannot stop now.

"We must continue to fight for all who have lost their lives to this racially-motivated hate, but as the Women's Caucus, we are calling on the community leaders, activists, and the entire country to hold women and gender minorities affected by police brutality especially close to their hearts," the Caucus said.

The legislators further noted that police brutality and abuse of authority can best be alleviated with budget cut and provision of more funds for social welfare services.

"The Women's Caucus joins with their colleagues in demanding a reduction in the NYPD's budget in favor of allocating resources to our youth initiatives, social services, education, and health care. We believe this is a productive way to honor the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and all who have suffered at the hands of law enforcement," the Caucus added. 

The legislators also acknowledged the steps taken so far against the cops involved in the killing of Geaorge Floyd. However, they asked for justice for other victims of police brutality, whose cases have been carpeted.

"The New York City Council Women's Caucus believes the decision to elevate the charges against Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin, in addition to charging the three remaining officers involved, is a critical step forward in the pursuit of justice for George Floyd. These actions are not a solution, but rather the manifestation of thousands who protested against police brutality, systemic racism, and racial injustice. It is our collective responsibility to hold bad actors accountable – including law enforcement officers who continue to abuse their authority.  Black women like Breonna, Sandra Bland, Pamela Turner, Atatiana Jefferson, Korryn Gaines, and Shantel Davis. Trans people like Layleen Polanco, Nina Pop, and Tony McDade. We invite you to say their names and demand justice in their memory," they said. 

 

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