REMARKS
Council Member Yusef Salaam introduces resolution to end qualified immunity
0:53:21
·
127 sec
Council Member Yusef Salaam introduces Resolution 645, which calls on the New York state legislature to pass and the governor to sign S182-A/A710, legislation aimed at ending qualified immunity for public officials who violate constitutional rights. Salaam emphasizes the importance of accountability for public servants and the need for justice and equity.
- Salaam thanks Senator Robert Jackson and Assembly Member Pamela Hunter for championing the legislation in the state legislature.
- He acknowledges the Innocence Project for their advocacy on this issue.
- Salaam argues that qualified immunity has been a barrier to justice and accountability for too long.
Yusef Salaam
0:53:21
Thank you.
0:53:23
Good afternoon, esteemed members of this great legislative body and the honorable speaker.
0:53:29
Today, I'm proud to introduce resolution number 60 645 calling on the New York state legislature to pass and the governor to sign s 182a /a710, crucial legislation to end qualified immunity for public officials who violate constitutional rights.
0:53:51
First, I wanna extend my heartfelt thanks to senator senator Robert Jackson and assembly member Pamela Hunter who have championed this legislation in the New York State legislator legislature.
0:54:03
Their commitment to justice and accountability is instrumental in advancing this important cause.
0:54:09
I also want to acknowledge the tireless advocacy of the Innocence Project.
0:54:14
Their work has shined a light on the barriers to justice faced by too many and has been vital in the movement to end qualified immunity.
0:54:23
As public servants, we are entrusted with the welfare and safety of every New Yorker, yet that trust cannot exist without accountability.
0:54:31
Qualified immunity has been a barrier for far too long allowing officials to evade responsibility for actions that harm the very people they are meant to protect.
0:54:40
This legislation represents a chance to bridge that gap.
0:54:45
It ensures that families and individuals seeking justice have a fair hearing and that no one, regardless of position, is above the law.
0:54:54
This resolution is not merely a policy matter.
0:54:57
It is a moral imperative.
0:54:59
Our communities deserve to feel safe and to trust that their rights will be upheld without exception.
0:55:05
By supporting s 182a /a 710.
0:55:11
We affirm that public officials must meet the same legal standards as every citizen.
0:55:17
This step forward is essential in our fight for a fair, just, and and equitable society.
0:55:23
Let us work together to build a New York that upholds justice for all.
0:55:28
Thank you.
