Cori Bush: We must end police brutality

(From First District Congresswoman Cori Bush)

I sincerely hope this message finds you in peace and good health.

President Biden will deliver his State of the Union address tonight before a joint session of Congress. The President will speak to a host of issues ranging from the economy and public education to the dual crises of police violence and gun violence. These are all issues of importance for residents across Missouri’s First District – and it is why I am excited to share that Michael Brown, Sr. will be joining as my honored guest for the President’s address to Congress.

Michael Brown Sr., is the father of Michael Brown who was killed by police nearly nine years ago. I would not be in Congress were it not for Michael Brown. He changed the world. 

Having his father alongside me tonight is my way of denoting the continued work that must be done for families suffering loss and trauma throughout St. Louis. It’s a reminder that we can and must end police brutality in our region and our country. 

Mr. Brown will be joined in House Gallery tonight by other surviving family members of victims of police violence, including the families of Tyre Nichols, George Floyd, Tamir Rice, Amir Locke, and Jayland Walker. Our St. Louis community knows all too well the toll and devastation police violence has on our communities, and we all want it to end. It is my goal to keep pushing and keep this issue front and center.

Though Michael Brown Sr. is by my side today in our U.S. Capitol, St. Louis, you are in my heart. Together, we will continue to build an equitable and just St. Louis where everyone is guaranteed a quality education, comprehensive health care, high-paying jobs, living wages, and affordable housing — in a safe community with clean air to breathe and clean water to drink. Your voice is so important in our work — and I will continue to work relentlessly on your behalf in the halls of Congress.