Pryor issues statement in response to Governor Holcomb’s state address on equity and inclusion in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS – State Representative Cherrish Pryor (D-Indianapolis) today released the following statement in response to Governor Holcomb's state address on equity and inclusion in Indiana:

“It's a start,” Pryor said. “I'm pleased to see him publicly commit to bettering the lives of Black and Brown Hoosiers, but words cannot stand without action. Bill after bill has been filed in the General Assembly with the hopes of improving the lives of Black Hoosiers and addressing the root cause of the challenges facing our community. Sadly, they have either failed or received little to no support from the Republican Party. I hope the Governor can move his party to commit to resolving those challenges by supporting our legislation.

“I am also pleased that the Governor is implementing some of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus' justice reform recommendations.  However, there are actions he can take immediately such as banning law enforcement from using no knock warrants and choke holds when detaining individuals. His commitment to ensuring all Indiana State Police wear body cameras is a step in the right direction, but this will not happen until 2021. Hopefully, the administration will support my bills on racial profiling, false reporting and summons to appear in the upcoming session. 

“I will have my feet on the ground and my eyes on the state as I continue advocacy efforts to ensure equality in Indiana.  I will once again extend my hand to work with Governor Holcomb and his administration on these issues.”