Freshwater Future is appalled by the attack on Patrick Lyoya and we send our condolences to his family and the community. The killing of Patrick Lyoya, an unarmed African American man, as a result of an inquiry over an expired license tab demonstrates the blatant disregard for Black lives by the police, the state, and our country. We stand in solidarity with all communities of color as members of these communities are disproportionately the victims of police brutality due to a history of systemic racism in this country. As always, actions not words are needed if we are to stop these killings. Immediate actions must follow from the City of Grand Rapids, the State of Michigan, and the country to dismantle the inherent racism in our government and other institutions. Although the lack of progress to create a just and equitable society is evident and frustrating, Freshwater Future will continue our work to listen, learn, and change to make our work more just and equitable.
