June 5, 2020
Statement from Mayor Casey Ryan:
George Washington called this new nation, the “Great Experiment”. No one knew if a nation founded on the principles of democracy, that provided for the protection of the rights and liberty of everyone, could succeed. Sadly, over 200 years later, that goal has not yet been achieved. The African-American experience in this country, from slavery, through “Jim Crow”, up to the death of George Floyd continues to remind us that we have a long way to go to achieve the blessing of liberty and justice for all.
Today in Troutdale there will be two protests to communicate that our community stands with those who have experienced unfairness and loss of life at the hands of those in power. The most recent example is the police officers in Minnesota who horribly abused the public’s trust and took Mr. Floyd’s life. I am not a fan of politicians who make big statements when they should really be listening to the needs of the people. I commit to our citizens that I will listen and do everything in my power to ensure fairness and safety for all. The deputies in our community do an excellent job. However, we must always be vigilant to ensure that everyone is well served and protected by our First Responders.
I appreciate that the protesters today are expressing their grief over the loss of another black life and their hope of justice and fairness for all. I know the protesters and observers will comport themselves peacefully. Just as Martin Luther King said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that. The beauty of nonviolence is that in its own way, and in its own time, it seeks to break the chain reaction of evil.”
God Bless,
Mayor Casey Ryan