Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Like most New Yorkers and most Americans, I am deeply distressed by the shocking television images of violence in major cities across the country, including here in New York State. We must all stand in support of peaceful protest against bigotry and discrimination and for genuine criminal justice reforms.
The violence against George Floyd and Breonna Taylor by law enforcement officials, which led to their heinous deaths, must be condemned. These are terrible tragedies on a long list of an even longer history. At the same time, I am appalled by the violence perpetrated at otherwise peaceful protests, resulting in deaths, injuries, and destruction of property. Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King said that “Violence as a way of achieving racial justice is both impractical and immoral.”
In the Assembly, I am cosponsoring and strongly supporting Assembly Bill 2513 to repeal § 50-a of the New York State Civil Rights Law. § 50-a allows law enforcement officers to refuse disclosure of almost all performance and disciplinary records from any requests, including requests under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).
Currently, New York has the most restrictive law in the country regarding transparency for police misconduct, and police departments, citing 50-a as justification. The continued lack of transparency enables abusive officers to continue to act with impunity. As our communities react to the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota, the demonstrations in response, and actions by local police officers to peaceful protests, the public deserves more from public officials. I am proud to support this legislation.
For those who are feeling the tremendous weight of the events across the country, please know you are not alone. Please consider no-cost resources that are here to help: the New York State Emotional Support Hotline can be reached at
1-844-863-9314
.
May the days ahead bring justice and comfort to the grieving families, friends, and all affected by the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and so many others.
In Solidarity,
Rebecca
