NASW expressed deep sorrow over the death of Sonya Massey. In July, a video was released showing her unjustified fatal shooting by a Chicago police officer in her own home. This followed her 911 call to report a suspected prowler.
This incident was unprovoked, according to all reports. The nation is again shocked by the death of an unarmed and nonviolent person of color resulting from the use of lethal force by law enforcement officers. As it has done in the aftermath of many similar tragedies, NASW is calling for those involved to be held accountable for this act of violence—while being accorded all available due process rights.
“Once again, we are shocked, saddened and appalled by an incident in which an unarmed person of color—within her own home—has died tragically at the hands of a police officer, someone she called on for protection,” said NASW CEO Anthony Estreet. “This is unacceptable. NASW will continue to confront racial violence—no matter the perpetrator. This association is unwavering in its quest to make sure all communities are safe.”
The tragic incident involving Massey highlights the need to address concerns about transparency and accountability, NASW said. Immediate and transparent investigations are necessary to understand the circumstances that led to the shooting. Accountability for the actions of the officers involved must be ensured through an impartial and thorough review process.
Many have called for investment in training and protocols for law enforcement. This incident underscores the need for improved training for officers responding to violations of the law and behavioral health emergencies. It is particularly important that police officers receive training about the potential for implicit bias among/by white officers during encounters with Black people and other people of color.
NASW recognizes that to prevent such tragedies, an independent body should conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting to ensure fairness. NASW has worked in collaboration with coalitions and police reform organizations for many years. During that time, the association has advocated for and participated in social action for policy reform—including requiring law enforcement agencies to review and revise their policies on the use of force.