Yet again, we find ourselves in this position where we are grieving the loss of another black man at the hands of those who swore to protect and serve.

 

Yet again, we are in this position where we are sending our prayers and condolences to the mother and families of those who have been murdered at the hands of those who swore to protect and serve.

 

Yet again, we find ourselves in this position asking God, why we have to suffer relentlessly at the hands of those who are supposed to protect and serve?

 

Yet again, we're asking why they feel so comfortable brutally attacking a young black man, knowing they are being recorded.

 

Yet again, we're asking ourselves why the philosophy of white supremacy lives in the minds of those it's designed to suppress, oppress, and destroy.

 

Yet again, as a community, we ask ourselves how does the mindset of anti-blackness consume the minds of our own?

 

As a community, we strive to work together to create systems where policies, processes, procedures, and culture prevent these heinous acts from persisting in any society. We strive to achieve this by supporting the election or appointment of Black women in leaderships positions that can drive change in our community.  This brutal act of murder is another heartbreaking reminder why our work and mission matters. 

 

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Nichols family.

 

May your soul rest in peace Tyre Nichols.

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Sylvia Bartley; President of BWR

On behalf of the BWR Board of Directors.