Delegate Nicole Williams Newsletter - 5/25/2022

Dear Neighbors and Friends -

Today marks two years since the death of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Two years since an institution with the goal to protect and serve failed yet another member of the Black community. Two years since a worldwide movement was sparked in his memory and in the memory of so many others to assert the truth: Black Lives Matter. Today, and every day, we remember George Floyd, and that the march towards justice for all is truly never finished.

In the past two years, legislators in the Maryland General Assembly have been committed to the ongoing effort for criminal justice reform. During the 2021 legislative session, we passed a historic repeal of the Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights, making Maryland the first state in the nation to do so. Among many other provisions to promote accountability in law enforcement, this repeal raised the standard for when it is appropriate to use force, as well as mandated the use of body cameras and restricted no-knock warrants.

This is the kind of work that must carry on. The mark of a free society is one where all members are treated equally and with fairness. In honor and in memory of George Floyd, we must continue our progress towards that ideal.

- Nicole