Cindy Carr, cindy.carr@sierraclub.org
WASHINGTON, DC -- Earlier this week, reports revealed that Attorney General William Barr gave the order to forcibly remove peaceful protesters outside of the White House. Barr’s directive led to a violent attack on the peaceful protesters, including the use of tear gas, pepper bullets, and batons. Barr has a well-documented record of opposing civil rights and in 2019, the Sierra Club released a statement opposing Barr’s confirmation as Attorney General.
In the past month, the Sierra Club has issued statements condemning police brutality against peaceful protesters and the violent murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd as the environmental community continues to work to demonstrate solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.
In response, Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune released the following statement:
“William Barr has proven he’s unfit to serve as the leading law enforcement official since the day he was confirmed, but the decision to order a violent assault on peaceful protesters exercising their First Amendment rights is beyond the pale. Barr’s order reinforces the deadly actions that have led to the murders of Black people across the country at the hands of law enforcement. His role in encouraging violence amidst peaceful protests is a deliberate distraction - taking attention away from the injustices being fought against. The Sierra Club demands that Barr immediately resign or be removed from power and forced to account for his actions.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.