Members of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus.
LANSING, Mich., Nov. 15, 2024 — During a Senate committee yesterday, a witness used the N-word racial epithet while giving testimony. In response to the incident, members of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) issued the following statements:
“Racial slurs and epithets have no place in civil society, especially in a public hearing. Yesterday, an individual who was testifying during the Senate standing committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety used the N-word while testifying — an action that must be condemned. Conversely, the committee chair’s handling of the situation and the swift rebuke by other committee members are to be commended,” said state Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor), MLBC chairperson.
“We stand collectively as members of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus in both chambers to express our deepest disgust and condemnation of the racial slur used yesterday during Senator Chang’s committee meeting. The use of such language is an insult to the dignity and integrity of all MLBC members, who are dedicated to serving the great people of Michigan. Even more importantly, the use of this racist slur is an insult to the personhood of all Black Michiganders and Americans. This type of racist and hateful display of ignorance has become emboldened, particularly in days following the election — we cannot let this become normalized. Hate has no place in the Senate, in the House, or anywhere in Michigan,” said state Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw), MLBC executive vice chairperson.
“The appalling actions during the Senate committee meeting yesterday were meant to malign and create an atmosphere of intimidation and hostility. The disruption was rightfully met with immediate reprimand and removal of the individual. Our members remain resolved to continue to work for the greater good on behalf of all Michiganders. Hateful rhetoric and racist attacks cannot become normalized in the discourse of public discussion. No one wants this type of repulsive behavior in our chambers,” said Chris Jackson, executive director of MLBC.
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