The Office of the People’s Counsel Statement on George Floyd in Observance of the National Day of Mourning for Racial Reconciliation
OPC Observes National Day of Mourning for Racial Reconciliation
Statement on George Floyd OPC Observes National Day of Mourning for Racial Reconciliation
Washington, DC -- As memorial services begin in Minneapolis today for George Floyd, the Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia joins the civil rights community in observing a National Day of Mourning and calling for racial justice. People's Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye makes the following statement.
"The mandate of the Office of the People's Counsel is to advocate for quality utility service and equitable treatment for the residents of the nation's capital at rates that are just, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory. During the national crisis marked by the senseless death of Mr. Floyd in Minneapolis, we also insist that Washingtonians and all Americans are entitled to equitable treatment by police and must not be the victims of racial injustice or discrimination.
"Like Mayor Muriel Bowser and other District leaders, I believe in the right of the people to protest and speak out against police brutality and systemic racism. Peaceful demonstrations must not be overshadowed by the few acts of violence by those with other agendas. As an attorney, I also call for justice for Mr. Floyd's family as those allegedly responsible for his tragic death face charges.
"Moving forward, I wholeheartedly support the demands for police reform, racial reconciliation and substantive dialogue on how to create a world where people of color can live without fear.