OP-ED: We Need Police Reform and Much More

On Friday, I wrote an op-ed published by the Indianapolis Recorder highlighting the need for police reform and other important changes following the death of George Floyd.

I’ve listened to Black leaders across Indiana — not just this summer, but over the last three years — and I’ve heard loud and clear that criminal justice isn’t the only concern that needs to be addressed. Affordable housing, health care, job opportunities and education are all issues that you’ve told me are important.

Meeting with Young Men, Inc. Youth Ministry 

Last week, I visited Young Men, Inc. Youth Ministry. The summer camp, founded by Reverend Malichi Walker, aims to empower young men to succeed. There, I had the opportunity to speak with the camp attendees about leadership and the values I learned at the U.S. Marine Corps. 

RESTART Act Roundtable at the Slippery Noodle Inn 

The Slippery Noodle Inn, Indiana’s oldest bar and the home of Blues in Indiana, hosted me for a roundtable discussion with music venue owners and employees. The roundtable included venue owners from Slippery Noodle Inn, Jazz Kitchen, White Rabbit Cabaret, and Pavilion at Pan Am. Like many other small venues, the Slippery Noodle Inn has been closed for the past four months with much uncertainty about its future. I spoke with the group about the economic toll of the pandemic and the need for my RESTART Act. More than 30 national trade associations – from music venues to manufacturing companies – have endorsed the RESTART Act, and over 40 Indiana businesses have expressed their support. As the Senate begins debating the next round of coronavirus relief this week, I will be pushing for the RESTART Act to be included.

Visit with Healthcare Workers at Community Hospital North 

On Friday, I visited frontline healthcare workers at Community Hospital North and thanked them for their service. Community Hospital North received $872,363 for telehealth from the CARES Act, which I supported. I was able to see first-hand how this CARES Act funding is being put to use for Hoosiers in the Indianapolis area.  

Listening Session with Law Enforcement Officials

I met with representatives from the Indiana State Police, Indiana State Police Alliance, Indiana Sheriffs Association, Fraternal Order of Police, and Indiana Association of Chiefs of Police to discuss police reform and the necessary steps to rebuild trust and keep Hoosiers safe. Click here for more on the event. 

Social Media Recap 

Join me for regular updates on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Thank you for the continued privilege to serve you in the U.S. Senate. My mission is to fight on behalf of Hoosiers and the interests that are unique to our state. I look forward to working with you, and sharing our progress, in the days ahead. 

In Service,