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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 19, 2007
CONTACT:
Media Requests:
Natalie Williams, Press Secretary (202) 624-5457
Policy Inquiries:
Atiba Madyun, Division Director (202) 624-8834
“Jena 6” The National Black Caucus of State Legislators
Demands Equal Justice
(Washington DC) State Representative Calvin Smyre (GA), President
of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) issues
the following statement regarding the “Jena 6” case
on behalf of NBCSL:
“The National Black Caucus of State Legislators stands in
full support of the national ‘Jena 6’ demonstration
scheduled in Jena, Louisiana on Thursday, September 20, 2007.
The National Black Caucus of State Legislators calls on our nation,
people of justice of all races to stand firm in ending this discriminatory
action in Jena, LA. We call on all state legislators and their constituents
to challenge the actions of Jena’s District Attorney as we
protect and reaffirm due process and our constitutional rights.
We call on the Judge to send these young men back to school and
not to jail by dropping all charges in all six cases. And lastly,
we call for a full investigation from the Department of Justice
into the blatant misuse of the criminal justice system.
In the 21st century, it is unfortunate, yet true, that the discriminatory
actions taking place in Jena, LA are indicative of the growing injustice
that continues to spread throughout our country. From the disproportionate
population of prisons to poor healthcare and under funded public
schools – African Americans and Hispanics across this country
continue to fall short of receiving their civil and constitutional
liberties.
As the National Black Caucus of State Legislators continues to work
to close these disparities, we also pledge to join in the fight
to balance the scales of justice for the “Jena Six”
and for future generations.
The National Black Caucus of State Legislators prays for racial
unity and healing of the residents of Jena, LA. And that the lives
of these six young men are fully restored.”
Rep. Calvin Smyre (GA), President of the National Black Caucus of
State Legislators (NBCSL) is available for media interviews. For
scheduling, please call Ms. Natalie Williams, National Press Secretary,
at (202) 904-9466.
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