Austin Justice Coalition speaks out ‘retaliation’ for those who come forward during investigation into racism at APD
AUSTIN (KXAN) — On Tuesday night, the Austin Justice Coalition, along with guests, discussed “a legacy of racism in Austin” as they urged the Austin Police Department to be willing to have “uncomfortable” conversations around its current investigation into allegations of systemic racism within the department.
BACKGROUND: Anonymous complaint to City alleges former APD assistant chief used ‘n word’ to refer to African-Americans
The coalition hosted a press conference at Austin City Hall to discuss its concerns about “possible obstruction” of the investigation.
According to AJC — who was joined by Austin City Council members and community leaders — while the initial investigation is due this month, “recent actions within the department will likely impede” it.
BACKGROUND: 2nd Austin police leader center of racism complaint, investigation authorized
“We want to make sure that the investigations and the credibility of the investigations are not tampered by people being retaliated against,” said Chas Moore, of AJC, who took the podium wearing a shirt bearing the message “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Blackness.”
He said that it “seems” that there is some sort of retaliation happening toward people who are speaking up.