SEIU California

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23, 2020

Contact: Mike Roth, 916.813.1554 Maria Elena Jauregui, Spanish-language, 818.355.5291

_Sacramento, CA—_The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California released the following statement today from Joseph Bryant, President of SEIU Local 1021 and SEIU California Board member, on the grand jury’s decision in the murder of Breonna Taylor:

“Three men wearing the uniform of America’s justice system murdered Breonna Taylor, and the justice system has now failed her again by condoning her murder at the hands of the police.

“Though we as SEIU members are heartbroken and sickened by this miscarriage of justice, it strengthens our resolve to fight for racial justice, equity and inclusion. After all, what is the promise of freedom if not to sleep in your own bed without fear of being killed by the police?

“Before she was gunned down by law enforcement, Breonna spoke of her desire to make change in her community: ‘I want to be the one who finally breaks the cycle of my family’s educational history,’ she said. ‘I want to be the one to finally make a difference.’

“SEIU members, Black, Brown, API, and white, feel Breonna’s death deeply, thinking of our daughters and sisters and their great promise. Those of us who are people of color feel the added urgency of knowing our own daughters could easily be in Breonna’s shoes. We pledge that she will not be forgotten, that we will carry the mantle of justice in her honor, and that she may rest knowing she has already made a difference.”

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