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December 9, 2008
Civil Rights Update: The Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act of 2007
The Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act of 2007 was introduced on February 8, 2007 by Representative John Lewis (D-GA.) and signed by President George W. Bush (Public Law # 110-344) on October 7, 2008. Public Law # 110-344 calls for expeditious investigation of unresolved civil rights murders and provides exhaustive resources for the facilitation of those investigations. Further, the law will allot human and fiscal resources for the years 2008-20017. The explicit purpose of the prior will be to conduct thorough investigations as well as prosecutions of criminal offenses involving civil rights and death related to such. These unsolved offenses are retroactive to December 31, 1969. This initiative will forthrightly respond to acts of prejudice, injustice and discrimination manifested during the historic civil rights period. Public Law # 110-344 will also attempt to eviscerate the imbalance endured by underserved populations as conveyed by the American system of jurisprudence.
NASW Action
For many Americans, the federal judiciary is the primary line of defense against violations of profoundly held constitutional principles; whereas, for others, it remains the final bastion of hope in a system that has marginalized, mistreated, or merely ignored them. As a nation, America has a rich tradition of benevolence and a significant obligation to prevent as well as eliminate any facets of discrimination. Being an agent of social change, the social work profession has achieved its greatest success when it has approached change holistically, linking the improvements sought through social, economic and political reforms. These reforms often are amalgamated with the larger cultural, legal and ideological dimensions of the issues it has addressed. To this end, NASW worked intimately with civil rights coalitions pursuing enactment of The Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act of 2007. The Association advocated before Republicans and Democrats seeking common ground on this relevant initiative. Additionally, NASW attended lobby days and legislative strategy sessions pursuant to this legislation.
Civil rights are of profound importance and the dispensation of justice concerning such has a direct impact on protections throughout society. As such, Public Law # 110-344 should be perceived by all Americans as an instrument of justice and the embodiment of equity as well as impartiality. NASW strongly believes that The Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act of 2007 will not only safeguard the rights and liberties of marginalized communities, but also it holds violators of deviant acts accountable for their behavior. The legislation reaffirms and underscores NASW’s long-standing commitment to individual liberties and social justice. As a profession, we hope sincerely that Public Law #110-344 fosters a national environment indicative of justice, equity and liberty.
Contact: Lawrence Moore, III at 202-336-8289
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