Following reports indicating that two protestors were killed and one was injured during protests in Kenosha, WI, Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) released the following statement from End Gun Violence Campaign Manager Ernest Coverson. The protests come after local police shot and severely injured Jacob Blake as he tried to get into his car.
“Once more, we are witnessing why it is crucial for the United States to protect the rights of protestors who are exercising their right to hold peaceful public assemblies and to end gun violence. Simply put, it is the duty of law enforcement officers to protect those who’ve gathered to protest. While Wisconsin is an open carry state, law enforcement officers should ensure that armed private individuals are not endangering public safety or targeting peaceful protestors.
Last month, AIUSA released a report in an effort to ensure that local, state and federal law enforcement agencies comply with recommended best practices for policing protests.