Congressional Black Caucus Chairman G. K. Butterfield in Response to Rioting in Baltimore, Maryland

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative G. K. Butterfield (NC-01), Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) issued the following statement in response to the death of Freddie Gray and protests in Baltimore, Maryland:

“Members of the Congressional Black Caucus offer our deepest sympathies to the family of Freddie Gray and the Baltimore community during this difficult time.  We call for peaceful protests so that additional lives are not lost.  We understand people are angry and that the community is upset, but violence only distracts us from the justice we seek.  Violence does not lead to justice.

“The Department of Justice has opened an investigation into the cause of Mr. Gray’s death and the CBC supports that investigation.  We all play a critical role in helping restore trust in law enforcement and our justice system.  The CBC will continue to work with federal, state and local governments to ensure this system is fair and impartial.  African Americans deserve to be treated equally before the law.”