As a mother of two adult African-American sons and a grandson, I am saddened beyond words at the death of Mr. Tyre Nichols. I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Nichols. His mother, Mrs. Wells, has shown strength beyond measure as she fights for justice for her son. His senseless death is a reminder to all of us that real police reform is essential. For those who feel that police reform should be managed at the state level, I disagree. Passing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act will provide a national standard that all police departments can follow. One aspect of the proposed bill creates a national registry, the National Police Misconduct Registry, to compile data on complaints and records of police misconduct. It also establishes new reporting requirements, including regulations on the use of force, officer misconduct, and routine policing practices.
I attended a church service on Sunday where the pastor referred to how events happening here in Memphis have forced us into the national and international spotlight. The first was the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King and now the brutal murder of Tyre Nichols. My hope and prayer is that through our grief, despair, and advocacy, finally federal laws are enacted to prevent another mother from grieving over the senseless murder of her child.
Rest in Peace Tyre.
Deidre Malone
President/CEO
The Carter Malone Group