FRANKLIN, WI: Forward Latino, a non-profit, nonpartisan advocacy and service organization with members in 29 states, applauds today's decision to indict the three attackers in the murder of Ahmed Arbery on federal hate crime charges. pleaded guilty. Per federal statute 18 US Code 249, this includes actions that "intentionally cause bodily injury to any person or attempt to cause bodily injury to another by the use of fire, firearms, dangerous weapons, or explosive or incendiary devices" . person, by reason of any person's actual or perceived race, color, religion or national origin" (18 US Code 249).
The Forward Latino National President issued the following statement:
"Today a jury found that the murder of Ahmed Arbery was motivated by hatred. We also know that it took 74 days for the known attackers to be arrested, and that their arrests came only after an extensive publicity campaign, including shocking facts. And the videos were shared with the American public. These facts are proof that hatred exists in our country and that there is still prejudice in our criminal justice system.
There are no good people on either side. There are people who hate and those who don't. One cannot declare "All Life Matter" without saying Black lives matter, Brown lives matter, Asian lives matter, Jewish lives matter, and more. This is an opportunity for these groups and organizations that truly believe that all lives matter to denounce prejudice and hatred.
Our prayers go out to the Arbery family as we hope today's verdict will help them in their healing process.
If anyone believes they may have been the victim of a hate crime or know of someone who has, please contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at (800) CALL-FBI."
About Forward Latino:
Forward Latino is a non-profit, non-partisan advocacy and service organization dedicated to helping Latinos pursue the American Dream. Forward Latino fulfills its mission through advocacy, civic engagement, education and service delivery. Forward Latino currently has members and allies in 29 states.