City of Monroe, LA

“It is heartbreaking to see what is quickly becoming the new normal in terms of the “plight of the Black Man”. As a result, the masses of people are rising up. Whether they are assembled in Minneapolis; New York City; Atlanta; Los Angeles, Washington, D.C. or Monroe, Louisiana; the cry is always the same… “We want to be free!” This is my paraphrase of a 1968 speech from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sadly, 52-years later, in 2020; we still can’t breathe. I share my sentiments with heartfelt conviction! However, it is important that we display dignity and remain safe. Our prayers are with the Family of George Floyd as well as so many others who have suffered his similar fate.” - Juanita Woods, Monroe City Council Chair, District 3