Illinois State Senate District 5 issued the following announcement on June 2.
State Senator Patricia Van Pelt (D- Chicago) released the following statement regarding the protests and riots that broke out in the city, as well as all over the nation, which were incited by the wrongful murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis:
“Just in the last month, we’ve mourned the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and now George Floyd. How many more names must be said? Countless black lives were lost at the hands of police, failed under a system that was never meant to protect them, never meant to protect people that look like me. We can’t breathe, and haven’t been able to since we were abducted from the shores of our native land.
“So to those that want to protest this unjust system and make change, I stand with you. But for those who are being opportunistic and aim to cause destruction - shame on you. Our neighborhoods were already struggling before COVID-19, and further destruction can ruin their chances of ever recovering.
“Now is the time to let your voices be heard, but don’t forget the message in doing so. Our lives matter. And our system is broken. I will continue to do my part as a legislator to spur change. And I ask my constituents to do the same.
“We can all play a part in making this city and this nation a better place: Whether it’s protesting peacefully, or organizing behind the scenes. Never forget the power of your voice, never forget the power of the people.
“Justice is no easy feat, but I promise I will fight with you as long as it takes to achieve it.”
Original source can be found here.
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