‘A massive and dangerous distraction for inaction’

SAINT PAUL, June 30, 2020 — The following statement is being released by the organizations listed below:

“In recent weeks, Minnesotans of every background and in all four corners of the state have been calling out for equity and justice for marginalized people, especially Black people, after centuries of brutality – including the murder of George Floyd. Yet, Minnesota Senate leadership has chosen to ignore the plea for justice and has doubled down on the dangerous rhetoric of dividing people by race and place. 

“Minnesotans are greater than fear and won’t let Senator Paul Gazelka or any others scapegoat Black people and the courageous protesters who have been boldly speaking up about the long history of race-based harm, hurt and brutality against Black, brown and Indigenous people. Instead, the GOP leadership seeks to fuel divisions when we need to come together. The hearing that Sen. Gazelka’s planning for Wednesday is a massive and dangerous distraction from his and his colleagues’ lack of action in creating safe communities for every Minnesotan, no exceptions.  

“Minnesotans want a government who cares for us. We want paid family leave, healthcare for everyone, safe homes, a clean environment and good jobs. All of these things are possible when we work together, across race, religion and geography. After years of wasting time and failing to lead, these Senate Republicans are now turning to tools of racial dog whistles, playing games with the lives of Minnesotan families, and exploiting the killing of a fellow Minnesotan, all for political points. Protecting every family, and creating safe communities for every Minnesotan is not a political choice, it’s a moral one. It’s past time that Senate leadership started leading accordingly.”   

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Organizational Signers: 

Education Minnesota
100% Campaign
Lutheran Church of the Redeemer
SEIU Minnesota State Council
SEIU Healthcare MN
SEIU Local 284
ISAIAH
Faith in Minnesota
CWA Minnesota State Council
Minneapolis Federation of Teachers and Education Support Professionals, Local 59
St. Paul Federation of Educators
Falcon Heights Church, United Church of Christ
St. Joan of Arc ISAIAH Ministry
First United Church of Christ, Northfield
TakeAction Minnesota
Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light
Women’s March Minnesota
Blue Moon
St. Joan of Arc ISAIAH Ministry
Minneapolis Federation of Teachers and Education Support Professionals, Local 59
First United Church of Christ, Northfield
Sierra Club North Star Chapter
Edina Indivisible