In a matter of just over a week another grand jury has decided not to indict a police officer for the death of an unarmed black man.

 

These are unsettling times across our nation. And now is time to have a serious conversation to address race, policing and justice, not just in other states, but right here in Colorado. 

 

The decision by a grand jury in Ferguson, Mo. not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of unarmed black teenager Michael Brown was controversial. While I understand there was conflicting testimony, I was disappointed with the decision and sympathize with those who feel justice was not served. 

 

Colorado students join nationwide protest.

I wonder what policies local authorities can put in place or change so that terrible tragedies like this can be avoided in the future.

 

More recently the decision by a New York grand jury to not indict Officer Daniel Pantaleo for his chokehold of Eric Garner that resulted in Mr. Garner's death has caused universal outrage. Rightly so in my opinion--the incident was caught on video and you can clearly hear Mr. Garner's repeated plea for help eleven times saying, "I can't breathe, I can't breathe, I can't breathe." 

 

While these events are tragic, they offer us a chance to have a critical conversation about race, policing, safety and justice. On Monday, December 29th, I will host a roundtable conversation with law enforcement and community leaders to advance public safety within the communities they serve.

 

 Stay Engaged and Connected, 

 

Rhonda Fields Colorado State Representative House District 42

Colorado House of Representatives 70th General Assembly    On Wednesday, January 7th the 2015 legislative session begins. Several interns/volunteers openings are available to assist with everything from data entry, answering phones, attending meetings and researching issues.  If you are interested, email me at [email protected] or call me at (303) 866-3911.