BIRMINGHAM, AL – Today, Congresswoman Sewell issued the following statement in response to the grand jury’s decision in the death of Michael Brown:

“While this is not the outcome many felt was warranted given the low standard of proof required to indict, I believe that this tragedy has awakened our Nation to the reality that we must collectively work to create communities that value the lives of young men of color. We must address the common stereotypes that perpetuate unwarranted fear while furthering racial divides within our communities. My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Michael Brown and all the citizens of Ferguson. Violence in any form is never the answer. It is my hope that the community in Ferguson will work peacefully to move forward. We as a Nation must not neglect the lessons learned from this tragedy.”

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