The Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (OCDLA), as the state’s premier organization defending the rights of accused persons, joins in the call to make the ideals of the “Black Lives Matter” movement a reality in our criminal justice system, from the moment of first contact with law enforcement.     

Racial profiling techniques such as “driving while black” or “just us” have no place in our society.  But it is not merely overt police and criminal justice system practices that are a problem. We condemn systematic practices, which may not appear overtly discriminatory, but have a racially discriminatory impact. No one, no matter their skin color or nationality, should fear the sight of a police officer while conducting themselves in a peaceful and lawful manner, nor should any person fear that an encounter with police will place their safety and, indeed, their life in jeopardy.        

The officers and members of the OCDLA also stand in full accord with the First Amendment, specifically the right to peacefully assemble to petition for the redress of grievances. Protesters, both in Oklahoma and around the country, have courageously answered the call to action. They demand to have their voices heard as they cry out for social justice for all persons of this nation.       

Peaceful demonstrations are not crimes and should not be received or treated as such by any governmental entity.  These activities are protected under the Bill of Rights in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.  A person’s right to peaceful protest should never be treated as criminal conduct, but rather should be defended by members of the executive, judicial, and legislative branches, as the very backbone of a representational democracy.      

Each of us has a responsibility to stand up against racism. But, under these circumstances, we encourage all members of the law enforcement community who disapprove of their colleagues’ abusive and humiliating actions towards people of color to stand and be counted, and to not look the other way when rights are being violated. We encourage all Oklahomans to stand together and make our state safe for all of its inhabitants without regard to the color of our skin or our ancestral heritage.  Together we can make Oklahoma a shining example of equality and liberty for all of its residents.