URBAN LEAGUE OF LOUISIANA APPLAUDS DECISION BY DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TO FULFILL OUR REQUEST FOR A CIVIL RIGHTS INVESTIGATION INTO THE PATTERN OR PRACTICE OF THE LOUISIANA STATE POLICE FOR ALLEGATIONS OF RACIALLY DISCRIMINATORY POLICIES

Issued: June 9, 2022

Today – The President and CEO of the Urban League of Louisiana, Judy Reese Morse issued the following statement:

“There is a long history of discriminatory actions, policies and practices by law enforcement in this state, including the case of Ronald Greene, who was killed at the hands of Louisiana State Police on May 10, 2019. We applaud Assistant US Attorney General Kristen Clarke and the US Department of Justice Civil Rights Division for today’s announcement that it is opening a civil pattern or practice investigation into Louisiana State Police which we first requested on May 25, 2021 along with National Urban League President and CEO, Marc H. Morial. While we understand the criminal investigation into the death of Mr. Greene is ongoing, we view this larger federal investigation into the Louisiana State Police as an important and monumental first step towards increasing transparency, accountability and delivering needed reforms. The Urban League of Louisiana has provided strong advocacy on this issue including the organization creating a petition that secured over 27,000 signatures, led a coalition of civil rights and community organizations in a press conference to amplify this issue, sent letters to federal and state officials requesting action, and provided weekly updates to our advocacy network and the public. The Urban League of Louisiana remains committed to providing critical advocacy for African American and other marginalized communities in their pursuit for civil rights, equity and economic self-reliance.”

Anyone with information pertinent to the United States Department of Justice’s investigation is encouraged to reach out to:
Email: Community.Louisiana@usdoj.gov
Toll-free phone: (202) 353-0684