Former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton was the guest speaker at the Massachusetts Conference for Women in Boston Thursday.
During her opening remarks, she made comments on Eric Garner, and policing.
"I want to say a few words about the pain and frustration that many Americans are feeling about our criminal justice system," said Clinton. "I'm very pleased that the Department of Justice will be investigating what happened in Ferguson and Staten Island. Those families and those communities, and our country, deserve a full and fair accounting, as well as whatever substantive reforms are necessary, to ensure equality, justice, and respect for every citizen."
Civil rights leaders around the country are decrying a New York grand jury's decision not to charge a white police officer in the chokehold death of a black man. The decision Wednesday not to bring charges against Officer Daniel Pantaleo in the death of Eric Garner has triggered protests around the country.
"Despite all of the progress we've made together, African-Americans, most particularly African-American men, are still more likely to be stopped and searched by police, charged with crimes, and sentenced to longer prison terms," said Clinton before a group of thousands. "I personally hope these tragedies give us the opportunity to come together as a nation to find our balance again."
Less than two weeks ago, a grand jury refused to indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of unarmed Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri.
"All over the country there are creative and effective police departments demonstrating that it is possible to keep us safe and reduce crime and violence without relying on unnecessary force or excessive incarceration. And, we all know there are decent, honorable, brave police officers out in our communities every single day, inspiring trust and confidence, rather than fear and frustration. So, let's learn from the best examples. Let's invest in what works," said Clinton.
