Tamika Mallory supports ending qualified immunity (QI). The social justice activist and author was one of the leading organizers of the 2017 Women’s March. She’s also an accountability advocate. Recently, Mallory spoke to MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell about the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.
As MSNBC notes, the Senate has yet to agree on the bill’s provisions. Specifically, on whether or not to end QI. Mallory went on MSNBC to weigh in. She believes qualified immunity reform should remain in the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.
“We are tired of having to compromise on things that really do not allow us to get full justice,” Tamika Mallory tells Andrea Mitchell. Mallory’s sentiments echo those of Rep. Cori Bush. The St. Louis lawmaker voiced a similar opinion to CNN regarding QI in the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.
“The overall issue here”, Mallory says, “is that there has to be accountability.”
Tamika Mallory continues: “There needs to be an overhaul of policing in this country.” That overhaul includes enacting policies that champion accountability. More accountability keeps our communities safer and healthier. Repealing the QI doctrine, then, is a move forward. However, if lawmakers decide to toss out QI, that’s taking a step back. As Tamika Mallory notes, stepping back on accountability is “harmful.”
In fact, Mallory feels that the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act “could even go further.” As written, the bill aims to end qualified immunity for police officers. Other proposed legislation, such the Ending Qualified Immunity Act, seeks to repeal the doctrine for all government officials.
Tamika Mallory urges people not to remain complacent and to keep fighting for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Daunte Wright, and all victims of police abuse. She intends to continue the fight by speaking out for accountability and ending qualified immunity.
Watch Tamika Mallory on MSNBC here.