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It is expected that the Grand Jury decision in the Breonna Taylor case will be announced soon. I have no inside information on the exact timing or what that decision will be, but there are some things that are clear to me at this point. 1/11
First, any decision on these 3 officers cannot bring justice for Breonna Taylor—and I don’t just mean it won’t bring her back. Too many things happened before they ever knocked on her door to put our hopes for justice on the fate of 3 individuals. The system must change. 2/11
Justice for Breonna means ensuring that there are no more who suffer her fate, and a public safety system that views Black people not as threats but neighbors to serve and protect . We have already made progress in that direction, but we have so far to go. 3/11
Second, the community movement that’s risen up in the wake of Breonna’s death has been an inspiration—focused, determined, peaceful, effective. Impassioned Louisvillians came together to open eyes, change minds, and secure reforms that will save lives. 4/11
Local activists are walking in the footsteps of giants of nonviolent resistance. Dr. King, my friend John Lewis, leaders who gave us Civil Rights, voting rights, and so much more. Our own Muhammad Ali and Georgia Powers, who fought for something bigger than themselves… 5/11
Third, whatever the decision from the grand jury is, this cannot be the end of this movement. 6/11
It is clear to me that you are the ones we’ve been waiting for. It is my deepest hope that you will continue to peacefully assemble and remain focused on the changes our society so desperately needs. You will do so with my full support. 7/11
The emotional trauma our Black community has experienced since March (and before)—the shootings, the response to protests, the deliberate focus on a few troublemakers over the nonviolent movement and *what* is being protested, must be as exhausting as it is infuriating. 8/11
Justice for Breonna will not be done until Black Louisvillians can feel as comfortable in their neighborhoods, homes, and skin as I feel in mine. This movement — angry but focused, peaceful but never passive — makes me believe we will get there. But only if it continues. 9/11
Peace can be Breonna’s legacy if we make it so. As her mother Tamika Palmer said: “Breonna devoted her own life to saving other lives, to helping others, to making people smile and bringing people together. The last thing she’d want to see right now is any more violence.” 10/11
Please stay strong. Please stay safe. Please know that I will be your ally along the way. 11/11
