In the wake of Sonya Massey's tragic death due to an officer-involved shooting on July 6, 2024, our nation is once again confronted with the urgent need for comprehensive police reform. The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act is designed to bring about meaningful change, ensuring accountability, transparency, and safety in our communities. Our petition outlines a two-phase approach to achieving these critical reforms.

Phase One: Immediate Executive Actions

President Biden has the power to take immediate steps that will lay the foundation for safer policing practices across the country. We urge the President to issue executive orders that will:

1. Ban Chokeholds and Carotid Holds: Prohibit these dangerous techniques, ensuring safer methods during arrests and reducing the risk of severe injury or death.
2. 
   Mandate Body Cameras: Require federal officers to wear body cameras, providing clear records of interactions that protect both residents and law enforcement by offering proof of events.
3. 
   De-escalation Training: Implement mandatory de-escalation training for federal officers, teaching them to handle situations peacefully and reducing violent encounters.

These actions can be implemented swiftly and set a precedent for state and local law enforcement to follow, demonstrating the federal government's commitment to accountability and transparency.

Phase Two: Legislative Advocacy

While executive actions can make an immediate impact, comprehensive and lasting reform requires legislative action. We call on Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which includes:

Prohibiting Racial Profiling: Ban racial, religious, and discriminatory profiling by law enforcement and mandate training to prevent these practices.

Restricting Use of Force: Require that deadly force be used only as a last resort and mandate de-escalation techniques.

Limiting Military Equipment: Restrict the transfer of military-grade equipment to state and local law enforcement.

Improving Accountability: Make it easier to prosecute police misconduct and eliminate qualified immunity for law enforcement officers.

Enhancing Data Collection: Create a national registry to track police misconduct and use-of-force incidents.

This Act will create a framework for systemic change, building trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and ensuring justice for all.

Why This Matters to Our Community

Sonya Massey's death is a stark reminder that even if our community hasn't faced an officer-involved shooting before, we must stand in solidarity with those who have. By supporting this legislation, we take proactive steps to prevent future tragedies and create a safer, more equitable society for everyone. This is about unity, accountability, and the belief that every person deserves to feel safe in their community.

Join Us in Advocating for Change

We need your help to make this vision a reality. Sign this petition to support the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and call for immediate executive actions to pave the way for comprehensive reform. Together, we can make a powerful statement and ensure that justice is served.