"Although I never knew George Floyd, I will never forget him or the fact that his death was both terribly wrong and completely and easily avoidable. No one who sees the video of his death can deny this, which is why it is important for all of us, regardless of the color of our skin, or ethnicity, to speak out against this great injustice. For too long, we have failed to fully address the lasting and insidious impacts that racism and racial inequality have had on our society. No one should fear violence or mistreatment because of the color of their skin. I share the outrage and my heart hurts along with everyone impacted by what is happening, but especially our African American brothers and sisters who throughout this difficult and heartbreaking week have had to again call into question their hope for justice and equality. Unfortunately, this hits home for Louisiana and many other communities across the country. As Dr. Martin Luther King has taught us, injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Creating a better world for our children and grandchildren begins with each of us reflecting on the biases we hold, sometimes unconsciously, and how we can treat each other better. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life. We are all called by our Creator to be better: 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.' I pray for God’s guidance and comfort for all of us."
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