AFT Leaders on Shooting of Dallas Police Officers

WASHINGTON—In response to the targeted murder of police officers in Dallas, AFT leaders issued the following statements of support and solidarity with Dallas police and the entire Dallas community.

Randi Weingarten, AFT president
“Last night, I watched the news in horror. It shook me to the core to see officers murdered in cold blood while they protected a peaceful protest. Our hearts are with Dallas. We mourn the loss of these men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our community. Our condolences go out their loved ones, and our thoughts remain with the officers and civilians who were injured during the shootings.

“The Dallas police embody the principle of building bridges, not walls. They have recognized the need to work with their community to ensure the safety of its citizens, and through outreach and training, they have created a department that is often called a model for our nation. Last night before the violence, we saw officers and protestors taking photos together, marching without conflict. When the shooting began, officers made sure protestors were safe even as they came under fire themselves.

“Violence has no place in a just society. One tragedy does not justify another. Every life lost to violence makes our country and our world poorer. Let us come together now to find common ground, to put our energy into solutions, so that every person has a chance to live a full, peaceful life. We must not fall into hateful rhetoric, fear mongering, partisanship or racism in response to this tragedy. We must continue our efforts to build this nation into one where all are treated equally and given equal opportunity.”

Louis Malfaro, Texas AFT president
“Educators across the state of Texas mourn the senseless taking of lives of our brothers and sisters who served us daily in the name of public safety. We support all Dallas police officers who performed this duty, which included protecting citizens who were peacefully protesting. The answers to the tough issues our nation faces regarding safe communities and fair treatment for all will not be found through hate and bullets but through difficult changes in behavior and attitudes.”

Rena Honea, Alliance/AFT president
“DART [Dallas Area Rapid Transit] officers sit at the table with our own members on the Central Labor Council. We’ve worked alongside them to win safe living and working conditions for all working people in Dallas, and watched with admiration as they undertake a dangerous job with courage, poise and love for their communities. Their example, along with the Dallas Police Department officers’, will shine bright for our members as we turn to the task of helping our students process and heal from the trauma of this unspeakable violence.”