(HOUSTON, TX, 6/16/2020) – The Houston chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Houston), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, announces support and partnership with Houston Justice in their police accountability efforts. CAIR-Houston demands the following immediate changes to the HPD:
- Adopt a Uniform Body Camera Policy
- Maintain Transparent Tracking of Complaints
- Establish a Citizens Review Board with Subpoena Power
Houston Justice has launched a petition urging for a Police Accountability Ordinance for presentation to Houston Mayor Turner and the Houston City Council. CAIR-Houston joins Houston Justice and community partners in this call for signatures and support from community members.
In a statement, CAIR-Houston President and Chairman of Board of Directors John Floyd, Attorney., said:
“In this challenging time of growing community awareness of systemic racism and violence in the criminal justice system, we call on our elected officials to listen to the demands for justice and join criminal justice activists in taking action now. This is not the time for task forces commissions and studies. We cannot waste this precious moment, it is time to act. Cities across the country are modifying their budgets and reevaluating police departments’ policies and procedures. We have a unique opportunity to truly reinvest in a shared vision of community safety, infrastructure, and recovery for the Houston community.”
CAIR-Houston in recent weeks has joined local activists and coalition groups calling for full disclosure and reform in light of recent concerning reports of law enforcement misconduct. At this time, CAIR-Houston also urges community activists and the general public to remain vigilant and alert in light of recent events.
He encouraged community members to contact their council members to share their support in these latest efforts. Floyd also asks anyone who is a witness or victim of hate and discrimination to report it immediately to the authorities and to contact CAIR-Houston for support at 713-838-2247 or at our website: https://cairhouston.com/get-help-now/
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Houston President and Chairman of Board of Directors, John Floyd, Attorney. jfloyd@cair.com 713.224.0101, Communications and Program Coordinator Ambreen Hernandez ahernandez@cair.com, 973.495.0976
