Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange Call for Unity, Fight Systemic Racism In Wake of Derek Chauvin Trial

The trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin for the killing of George Floyd has concluded with a guilty verdict on all counts of murder and manslaughter. In the wake of the jury’s decision, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, and all members of the U.S. Federation of Sisters of St. Joseph, call for peace and nonviolence for all who wish to be heard.

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In our relief that a sense of justice has been restored, we remember in prayer the grieving families of George Floyd and other victims of law enforcement violence and systemic racism.

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We recognize this moment as a pivotal time to engage whole-heartedly in the difficult work of unraveling systemic racism and biases that fuel unjust treatment of people of all colors. We join with the voices calling for law enforcement reform that includes ending the use of life-threatening forms of physical restraint when a person is not resisting arrest and/or is already in custody.

Sisters of St. Joseph believe in and work for unity and reconciliation. With God’s guidance, we seek to recognize one another with dignity and love as we move forward in building a better future together. In this collaborative work, we ask God for deep healing of all communities and improved relationships with the people who serve them.