Advancement Project National Office Statement: The Killing of Ahmaud Arbery, 25, by Armed white Men in Georgia

WASHINGTON, DC — Georgia resident, 25-year-old Ahmaud Arbery, was killed by father and son Gregory and Travis McMichael in February. The nation learned of the killing this week by way of unearthed video footage two months later. The McMichaels have yet to be arrested for the egregious incident and have said they thought Arbery, who was jogging, was thought to be a burglar. In response, Advancement Project National Office offers the following statement:

“Advancement Project National Office is horrified by the cold-blooded murder of Ahmaud Arbery by two white men in Georgia. While we fight alongside our grassroots partners to protect people in jail from COVID-19, the assault on Black and Brown people outside of jails does not stop,” said Thomas B. Harvey, Justice Project Director for Advancement Project National Office.

“We know we cannot rely on the racist and predatory criminal legal system for justice. We stand with Mr. Arbery’s family as they seek accountability in the terrifying killing of yet another unarmed Black man in America by armed white men. The echoes of this murder are as old as our nation, and we must take action to end this ugly legacy. The very people Black and Brown communities voted into office, some of whom are now blatantly disregarding the health and welfare of communities of color during this pandemic, must join Mr. Arbery’s family in their pursuit for justice.”