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Pocan Statement on Death of Tony Robinson

March 9, 2015

Madison, WI U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan (WI-02) today issued the following statement on the deadly police shooting of Tony Robinson:

"The loss of this young life is a tragedy; and my deepest sympathy goes out to the family of Tony Robinson at this very difficult time.

"My hope is that out of this tragedy comes an opportunity for our community to grow stronger together. People of color across the country and right here in our community are arrested at disproportionately high rates. Black men in Madison are arrested at eight times the rate of whites. In Wisconsin, black men are incarcerated at a rate that's nearly twice the national average. Without a doubt, black lives matter. We cannot ignore the problem.

"Right now, our community has more questions than answers. I look forward to a transparent and thorough investigation so we can get all the facts in this case.

"Exercising our rights through peaceful protests and demonstrations allow us to ensure voices are heard and put our community on the path toward healing and understanding. We will get through this if we move forward together."