Police Reform Campaign Responds to Mayor de Blasio’s Comments on Last Night’s Freddie Gray Protests

In response to Mayor de Blasio’s comments on last night’s protests in New York City, Communities United for Police Reform released the following statement from spokesperson Priscilla Gonzalez.

New York, NY

“It’s unacceptable that Mayor de Blasio refused to take responsibility for the systemic lack of respect that the NYPD showed for the rights of peaceful protesters last night by being the ones inciting abuse and violence against New Yorkers. Our communities have been brutalized and killed by police despite following the law for decades, and last night New Yorkers were once again brutalized by the NYPD for simply protesting. There has been no systemic change within the police department that can ensure safety for all New Yorkers and end the discriminatory, abusive policing of our communities. Until City Hall ensures accountability for the NYPD, there can be no improvements to the relationship between communities and police, and we will continue to see a police department that acts with impunity.”

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About Communities United for Police Reform: Communities United for Police Reform (CPR) is an unprecedented campaign to end discriminatory policing practices in New York, and to build a lasting movement that promotes public safety and policing practices based on cooperation and respect– not discriminatory targeting and harassment. CPR brings together a movement of community members, lawyers, researchers and activists to work for change. The partners in this campaign come from all 5 boroughs, from all walks of life and represent many of those unfairly targeted the most by the NYPD. CPR is fighting for reforms that will promote community safety while ensuring that the NYPD protects and serves all New Yorkers.