My name is Mildred Myquea Charity Johnson, and I am a resident of Nacogdoches County, Texas. I am 30 years old.  I am writing not just as a concerned citizen, but as a direct victim of a justice system that has failed to protect me, my family, and many others in our community — simply because we are Black.

I, too, have been a victim of this system. I was falsely accused and charged with drug offenses, despite having no involvement. I was profiled, lied on, and treated like a criminal without cause. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident but a recurring pattern of racial discrimination that targets Black residents in Nacogdoches County.

The Nacogdoches Police Department, Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney, and Judiciary have consistently demonstrated a profound lack of accountability. They engage in racial profiling, levy false charges, orchestrate biased prosecutions, and fail to hold officers or officials accountable for misconduct. This systemic racism perpetuates an environment of fear and injustice.

According to recent studies, Black individuals in Texas are disproportionately affected by racial profiling and unfair treatment in the criminal justice system. Statistics reveal that Black residents are more likely to be stopped, searched, and arrested than their white counterparts, despite similar behavior. The Texas Department of Public Safety's annual report highlights a disturbing trend in racial disparities across the state's justice systems, further emphasizing the need for urgent action in Nacogdoches County.

The time for change is now. We demand that local authorities conduct thorough investigations into alleged racial discrimination within all levels of law enforcement and the judiciary. We call for the implementation of comprehensive training programs focused on racial equity and the establishment of independent oversight committees to ensure transparency and justice.

We urge the Nacogdoches Police Department, Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney, and Judiciary to take immediate action to rectify these injustices and rebuild trust within the community. Sign this petition to stand with us in demanding accountability, justice, and equality for Black residents in Nacogdoches County. Together, we can bring about change and put an end to systemic racism in our justice system.