Contact: Johanna Kichton, 202.660.0605, [email protected]

WASHINGTON, D.C.–People’s Action Director George Goehl released the following statement in response to the shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin by police:

“We stand with those feeling grief and outrage at yet another instance of state-sanctioned police violence. We woke up to horrifying news that a police officer shot Jacob Blake in his back, at least seven times, with his children watching. We are sickened. We vehemently condemn the racist institutional practices that continue to embolden police officers to target Black people with lethal force. We will not tolerate police thinking they can act with impunity in this country.

“Communities across Wisconsin are protesting this heinous act of violence, and we support the Black-led organizing that is leading the response. Justice can’t wait. In June, after the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police, People’s Action voted to adopt the Movement for Black Lives’ demands, which include divesting from police and investing in Black communities and services that can produce real public safety. We remain committed to fighting for justice, for Black people, and for safety in every community.

“Jacob Blake and his family are in our thoughts today, along with the countless other Black people who have suffered at the hands of white supremacy and police brutality. The police officers involved in the shooting of Jacob Blake must be immediately held accountable for their actions.”

About People’s Action

People’s Action is a national network of 40 state and local grassroots, power-building organizations united in fighting for justice. 

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