To those who deny that racism is deeply embedded in our country, you are wrong. The pain and frustration millions of Americans are expressing in our streets is a demand for equality.

I am proud of Houston. I am proud of our City and the fact that the majority of protesters were not only peaceful, they offered messages of hope, faith, and a commitment to justice for all. Over the weekend I saw our Mayor and Chief of Police stand alongside community members. I saw many police officers in dialogue with protesters. I saw tears, love, and a desperate hope that we can move forward together.

This stands in sharp contrast to scenes across our country. It is salt in the wounds of millions to see law enforcement use brutal force against Americans speaking out against racism, when only weeks ago those same agencies used restraint when “militia,” wielding guns, surrounded and stormed state capitols claiming that government does not have a right to protect citizens from a global public health crisis. Disparate justice does not even begin to describe it.

There is work to be done, and many of us are rolling up our sleeves. We will have hard and desperately necessary conversations between police and the community. I thank those who have reached out to my office to provide feedback, and I will be sharing further information in the coming days on our next Public Safety and Homeland Security Council Committee meeting.

Tomorrow I will be joining George Floyd’s family, Mayor Turner, Council Colleagues, and others as we march to honor his memory.

In the meantime, to those peacefully gathering, please be safe. Wear your mask, and follow health guidelines to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Continue to stand for equality and fair treatment under the law.

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Council Member Abbie Kamin