Washington, DC — In reaction to the latest developments surrounding the police killing of Tyre Nichols in Memphis after a routine traffic stop, People For the American Way President and CEO Svante Myrick released the following statement:

“We are devastated by the violent taking of Tyre Deandre Nichols’ life, which happened during a questionable traffic stop at the hands of unfit police officers. As these events continue around the country, what is clear is that the culture of violence and abuse within police departments is a failure of the U.S. policing system, not just of individual officers.

“Police killings and other egregious abuses will never end until we adopt long-term systemic solutions that weed out violent officers in the application process and promote unarmed responses to non-violent emergencies. Systemic problems require system solutions, which is what the report, “All Safe: Transforming Public Safety” provides as part of a proven four-pronged policy approach to end police violence. Reimagining public safety requires demanding real, institutional change at the local level and partnering with community, faith and public servants who have a deep commitment to justice and safety.”

###

About People For the American Way 

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.