Congressional Black Caucus Reacts to Grand Jury Decision

The grand jury decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson was a “slap in the face” to the Congressional Black Caucus, Politico reports.

“The Ferguson grand jury’s decision not to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown is a miscarriage of justice,” CBC chair Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio) said in a statement late Monday night. “It’s a slap in the face to Americans nationwide who continue to hope and believe that justice will prevail.”

Fudge went on to say that the grand jury’s decision reflects a long-standing history of racism against Black men in this country.

“The decision seems to underscore an unwritten rule that Black lives hold no value; that you may kill Black men in this country without consequences or repercussions,” she said. “This is a frightening narrative for every parent and guardian of Black and brown children and another setback for race relations in America.”

Tensions were high after prosecuting attorney Robert McCulloch announced that the grand jury reached a decision not to indict Officer Wilson on criminal charges for the shooting of unarmed Black teen, Michael Brown. Protest erupted in Ferguson and in many major cities throughout the country. Missouri Governor Jay Nixon remains hopeful, however, that the nation can move forward.

“I urge all those voicing their opinions regarding the grand jury’s decision to do so peacefully,” the governor said yesterday. “I also urge everyone to continue working to make positive changes that will yield long-term social, economic and spiritual benefits for all our communities.”