Home Local News Centro Hispano Executive Director Karen Menéndez Coller releases statement on Chauvin verdict

Centro Hispano Executive Director Karen Menéndez Coller releases statement on Chauvin verdict

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George Floyd Memorial in Minneapolis (Photo by Dr. Chris Browning)

Centro Hispano Executive Director Karen Menéndez Coller released a statement on Thursday morning about the recent triple guilty verdict against former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd saying that she is hopeful of change but that “real change is focused on dismantling systemic racism and that honors the memory of George Floyd, Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo, Ma’Khia Bryant, Tony Robinson and so many others.”

Centro Hispano of Dane County, located on Madison’s south side, is the leading social service provider for Latinos in Dane County.

Centro Hispano Executive Director Karen Menendez Coller

Her statement follows:

Black Lives Matter.

We stand with a verdict that has finally created a moment of respite for Black men, women and families. We stand with George Floyd’s family and hope this verdict grants some healing for them in the midst of navigating the despair of their loved one’s murder.
 
The trauma of witnessing the killing of yet another unarmed Black man will stay with us for generations to come. Our communities of color have faced so many relentless attacks. But this week, for the first time, we have finally witnessed accountability.
 
We hope that this moment is the beginning of change in this country and the world. Real change focused on dismantling systemic racism and that honors the memory of George Floyd, Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo, Ma’Khia Bryant, Tony Robinson and so many others. Change that reimagines possibilities, and above all else, change that is based on community need, voice and understanding.
 
It is time for dignity and respect for our families, time to humanize our communities and value us for the citizens we are.  The future can be better, be what it needs to be, for all our children. We will stand together in solidarity and continue to work hard for what is just and for what our communities deserve.

Karen Menéndez Coller
Executive Director
Centro Hispano of Dane County