Killing of Latinx Child Underscores Urgent Need for Police Accountability

Earthjustice released the following statement today in response to the killing of 13-year-old Adam Toledo in Chicago:

“Earthjustice condemns the senseless and unjustifiable killing of 13-year-old Adam Toledo who was shot to death by police last month. Police footage released today showed the child raising both hands as commanded by the police when he was fatally shot in the chest.

“News of Adam’s death comes as the nation grapples with the trial over the brutal killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis and Sunday’s killing of 20-year-old Daunte Wright, both of whom were Black men.

“The loss of such a young life is incredibly tragic. Latinx and Black people are the disproportionate victims of police violence, which compounds trauma that communities of color have experienced due to systemic racism and white supremacy. Chicago, like much of the nation, has a long legacy of police abuse and discrimination.

“Adam’s killing, like countless others, underscores the need for an end to senseless police violence, for genuine accountability throughout this nation, and for systemic change.

“We urge authorities to safeguard the lives and wellbeing of protesters who are rightfully demanding justice. Earthjustice’s Midwest Office is based in Chicago and we stand in solidarity with our grieving neighbors as they seek accountability.”