Jay Z adds voice to New York governor’s race relations plan in wake of Eric Garner and police officer deaths

The ‘Empire State of Mind’ star called for unity in order to move forward

Neela Debnath
Sunday 25 January 2015 15:17 GMT
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Rapper Jay Z called for unity in his statement
Rapper Jay Z called for unity in his statement

Rapper Jay Z has given his support to new proposals to reform relations between the police and the New York community following two fatal incidents in the state.

Governor Andrew Cuomo promised “equal justice” and to recruit more police officers from ethnic minorities during the annual State of the State address in New York on Wednesday. Most importantly, Cuomo outlined plans for a state-wide commission on police-community.

Jay Z issued a statement to Capitol Confidential following Cuomo's address. He said: “The criminal justice reform package proposed by Governor Cuomo today is a huge step forward in restoring fairness, protection, sensitivity and accountability for all under our justice system.

“I commend Governor Cuomo for his bold leadership in taking this issue head on at this critical time. This package presents comprehensive steps to protect and improve relations amongst all citizens.

“We cannot be divided, as every single human being matters. Together, we can move forward as a community, with mutual respect for each other and continue to make this great state stronger than ever before.”

Cuomo’s plans come in the wake of two fatal incidents involving the New York Police Department (NYPD).

The first was death of Eric Garner, who died after being held in a chokehold by police officer Daniel Pantaleo despite repeatedly saying that he couldn’t breathe. The Grand Jury decided not to bring charges against the officer sparking protests and outcry among the public.

The second was the murders of police officers Wenjin Liu and Rafael Ramos, who were shot by gunman Ismaaiyl Brinsley while sitting in their patrol car.

Both incidents have put a harsh spotlight on New York’s policing system and caused increased tension between ethnic minorities and the police.

This is not the first time Jay Z has spoken about race relations, having recently claimed that hip hop had done more to break down racial barriers than most cultural icons, apart from Martin Luther King Jr.

Additional reporting by agencies

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