AAMIA Statement in Reponse to the Injustice in Jena, LA
In response to the injustice in Jena, Louisiana, the African American Ministers Leadership Council (AAMLC) and African American Ministers In Action (AAMIA) released the following statement:
"Forty years after the victories of the civil rights movement, Jena, Louisiana has given us a harsh reminder that justice in America is still not colorblind. Jim Crow is still casting its long shadow across our country, and not just in the south. Young people across this country get caught up in a legal system that is unequal, too often unjust, and destroys lives."
"But it is the actions of the white power structure in this southern town that are provoking outrage and action. People who are sick and tired of being sick and tired are finding their souls filled with passion and outrage. This is an opportunity to reexamine the state of our criminal justice system. It is an opportunity to bring about a rebirth of the civil rights movement."
"We’re reminded of a passage in Amos 5 used often by Dr. King in the call for justice, “Let justice run down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” We believe that our work toward a more just society is a part of our call to serve God. We are encouraged that people of all faiths, cultures, religions and ethnic groups are outraged by this injustice, and we are inspired by the consciousness of our youth who are helping to lead this movement. We’re hopeful that this energy will translate into education and action on all the issues that are affecting our communities. This must continue long after Jena, and far beyond Louisiana, because Jena can happen in many other towns across America."