INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Democratic Party, the organization that advocates for the future of Indiana and its families, today issued the following statement to on the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder. It was Floyd’s death that sparked the growth of the Black Lives Matter movement and a worldwide conversation about systemic racism in the United States and across the world. This advocacy led to the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus to help pass House Bill 1006 during the 2021 legislative session, which reformed criminal justice across Indiana: 

“The murder of George Floyd was a shameful tragedy that the entire world witnessed. Many of us were left heartbroken in the days, weeks, and months following Mr. Floyd’s death because video evidence made it clear that injustice and racism still exists in our nation. The right verdict was delivered last month and Floyd’s death and the Chauvin trial continue to serve as a reminder of the many injustices and problems too many Black Americans still face on a daily basis. All Hoosiers must do their part to create a state and a country that is not only more just, but more understanding and equitable.”

The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus and Indiana Democrats took part in last year’s intense debate on systemic racism and responded to this demand for accountability by delivering House Bill 1006 this legislative session. Among several things, this new law bans chokeholds in most circumstances, invests in de-escalation training, and penalizes law enforcement for misusing body cameras during work hours. We were fortunate to enshrine this important legislation into law, however, it only scratches the surface on what is possible. There’s still more work to do to bring full equity in our state, but Hoosiers shouldn’t lose any sight that the accomplishments made this year were due to a tragedy from a year ago. 

The Indiana Democratic Party continues to pray for the family of George Floyd and all Black Hoosiers who’ve experienced police brutality or unfair circumstances in our criminal justice system. Democrats are committed to leveling the playing field and do the work necessary to make Indiana a place to call home for everyone – regardless of who they are or the Zip code where they live.” 

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