The following statement was released by the City of Los Angeles Commission on Civil Rights:
In light of the recently released recording which captured Nury Martinez, Gil Cedillo and Kevin de León engaging in racist conduct, the Commission on Civil Rights publicly and unequivocally condemns this abuse of power that reinforces structural and institutional racism. These actions are a betrayal of the public’s trust and a violation of the core values of our great City.
We stand firmly with the Mayor, Councilmembers, and the people of Los Angeles in demanding for not only the resignation of these Councilmembers, but also a revisiting of the City Charter and restructuring of the redistricting process in an effort to ensure the integrity and core values of democracy. It is incumbent upon all elected and appointed City leaders to abide by ethical obligations and to uphold just and inclusive practices within our City. Our city and its residents are deserving of leaders who embody the principles of an LA for All.
The Los Angeles Civil and Human Rights Law, established under Article 16, Chapter IV of the Los Angles Municipal Code prohibits discrimination under Section 51.03. While our scope of authority to investigate discrimination claims is only as it pertains to the private sector under Section 51.03, we stand firmly against discrimination and racism in all its forms. The Commission, as part of the Los Angeles Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department, is committed to maintain and strengthen the City’s diversity and will work diligently to bring about healing and forward movement of our City.
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Click here to learn more about the Commission on Civil Rights.