WASHINGTON, D.C.— In response to breaking news that Kenosha, Wisconsin District Attorney Michael Gravely will not charge Rusten Sheskey, the officer who shot and paralyzed Jacob Blake in August, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“Today, we watched as the system tragically failed our community once again.  The decision to not charge another police officer for nearly killing an unarmed Black person is a devastating blow to Jacob Blake, his family, Black and Brown communities, and all who believe in justice and accountability.  Kenosha police officer Rusten Sheskey shot Jacob seven times in front of his children and now he might never walk again.  We cannot continue preserving a system that wreaks havoc on Black communities and excuses police violence.  As Americans who truly believe in democracy and justice for all, we have a responsibility to work towards ending violent and deadly policing and to pursue public safety policies that protect our communities and our values. We support his family in their quest for redress through the civil system. At the same time this nation must redouble our work to end police violence.”

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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