Contact: adam.bingman@sierraclub.org
OAKLAND -- Yesterday, authorities in Memphis released the video footage in the police killing of Tyre Nichols. While the five officers involved in the incident have been criminally charged, the Nichols family and Tyre’s community in Memphis are left to grieve the loss of yet another life at the hands of police.
In response, Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous, Sierra Club Executive Board Member and Memphis native Rita Harris, released the following statement:
“No one in any community should ever be threatened by those sworn to keep us safe. Tyre Nichols’ murder shows once again that too many police are comfortable hurting and terrorizing people of all colors instead of fulfilling their duty to protect and serve the people,” said Jealous.
“The belief that there are no disposable people and no disposable places is at the core of our work. Every person deserves to live in healthy, safe, welcoming communities and it is outrageous that people of color are unjustly denied those basic rights. The Sierra Club is committed to overcoming the inequality embedded into our society that has allowed these tragedies to persist. If we want to create communities that are truly safe, just and equitable, we must continue fighting for humanity and the dignity of all people.“
Harris said “I am devastated. All my thoughts are centered on the mother and family of Tyre Nichols. Condolences are in order but seem inadequate. I personally want to see JUSTICE for Tyre. Justice must be served and calls for police reform cannot be over-emphasized. “It is important that we not become desensitized to killings at the hands of those in police uniforms or anyone else. Our communities must feel safe and trust those who have sworn an oath to protect and serve.
“As a mother and grandmother I want my son and grandson to feel safe when they encounter the police.
“When triggering situations like these occur we must support each other and offer space for self care and healing. However, true healing cannot be achieved in our Black and Brown communities without justice.
“We (Sierra Club) stand in solidarity with those calling for justice, accountability, and effective measures to stop unbridled police brutality.”
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About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of 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.