Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

It is right that Derek Chauvin is being held accountable, as should every person and system in the nation that supports or reinforces racism. Justice will never be achieved until we dismantle unjust systems. While many people feel relief at this verdict, it is telling that we live in a nation where a verdict like this would ever be in question. This case's conclusion does not eliminate the deeply rooted inequities that exist in our country and the racism and unconscious bias that permeate our structures and systems. Black people experience collective and vicarious trauma that escalates with every murder of an unarmed Black person at the hands of police. These immoral acts take away an important sense of safety and normalcy and have long-lasting effects on mental and physical health. Injustice affects everyone. That is why we need to address systemic and structural factors, such as policies in law enforcement and criminal justice. All Americans must stand against all forms of hatred and violence. Americans must recognize that seeking justice does not always lead to the system changes that people of color need to feel protected and safe. All Americans must acknowledge and lift the voices of those who are hurting and living with deep emotional wounds. In Monroe, LA, David Harris' suspicious death in police custody has been reported with very few details. When will law enforcement release information or body camera footage for transparency? Until then, it seems that Blacks will have to die to be free. On that day of reckoning, everyone will have to give an account! Do not die in another's heaven and go to hell! The American Psychological Association, in Washington, D.C., is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States.

George Floyd