Lexington Democratic Club Statement On George Floyd

The Lexington Democratic Club is deeply troubled by the killing of George Floyd and extends condolences to his loved ones. We are outraged at the police action and inaction that caused the deaths of Mr. Floyd and so many other people before him, and we condemn the biased actions of police officers who have victimized innocent black people.

We recognize the long history of violence and disenfranchisement against black Americans that has sparked these protests and we stand in solidarity with Mr. Floyd's family, friends, and community in advocating for reform. We sincerely hope that the pain and suffering being felt across our nation in these trying days leads to much needed systemic reforms.

To that end, we call on governments across our country to address this crisis in meaningful ways that will make our nation stronger for future generations. Exercising the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances is a bedrock of the First Amendment and a founding principle of our nation; we, therefore, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those peacefully expressing their anger and sadness. We also strongly disapprove of violence, theft, or destruction of property and call for an immediate halt to such activities which detract from the rightful outrage and call for change being expressed by so many.