City Of Portland: Commissioner Rubio Statement On Chauvin Verdict

Press release from the City of Portland:

April 20, 2021 2:11 pm

While we recognize that a guilty verdict was delivered in this specific case, it is still not safe for many Black lives because numerous Americans refuse to acknowledge that white supremacy and racism continues to define this country in too many ways. Since the start of this trial, police have killed an average of 3 people per day, nationally. We demonstrate that Black Lives Matter and honor George Floyd, Adam Toledo, Daunte Wright, and the numerous, numerous others when we commit ourselves to thinking and acting intentionally, with love for all, and a commitment to do our internal work and to teach our children to do better. We all must begin to have these conversations with our friends, families and communities, even when it is hard. We are either productive, or counterproductive: there is no neutrality. We cannot work to dismantle structural barriers to racial justice and racial equity if we are unable to work through discomfort, face the truths of our history and present-day actions, and make changes to recognize these truths and value our communities. But this must be followed up with actions. As elected officials, we have a responsibility to listen and act in response to our community’s plea for change, and that move us toward justice. Today’s decision will not be an indication that America is changing unless we make it so.

This press release was produced by the City of Portland. The views expressed here are the author’s own.