The National League of Cities’ National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NLC-NBCLEO) is deeply saddened and outraged by the death of Tyre Nichols. The footage of the incident that led to his death shows a clear disregard for human life and a failure of duty of care by the officers involved.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Tyre Nichols, and stand in solidarity with the community affected by this tragedy.
As a constituency group of the National League of Cities, it is imperative that we stress the importance of implementing policies that will put an end to what is now routine behavior between law enforcement and Black citizens. As we review police policies and procedures at the local level, it is essential that we address these incidents in a vocal manner to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in other cities across the nation. The National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials calls for municipal leaders, state legislatures and the U.S. Department of Justice to examine and consider the following: 1) hiring procedures and the selection of officers; 2) mandatory sensitivity training for all academies; and 3) the implementation non-elevated response techniques.
We recognize that this incident is not an isolated one, and that it highlights the need for systemic and cultural change. We call on cities across the country to re-imagine public safety. As leaders of our cities, it is our responsibility to ensure our communities are safe, just, and equitable for all residents. We will continue to work towards this goal and will not rest until we see real change in our criminal justice system.
Sincerely,
Aaron Banks
President, NLC-NBCLEO