Karen Bass: “There is nothing new under the Sun. The Black people have battled police brutality since policing began in this Nation.…”

“There is nothing new under the Sun. The Black people have battled police brutality since policing began in this Nation. But times have changed; our country has changed. A few years ago, we had to explain that racism still exists despite the election of Barack Obama, twice. Now, 76 percent of Americans consider racism and discrimination a big problem. That is progress. A few years ago, we had to explain why we say Black lives matter. Now, 67 percent of Americans support the Black Lives Matter movement. Just a few weeks ago, we had to explain the anger and frustration we saw unfolding in the streets. But, again, 67 percent of registered voters supported the peaceful protest in response to George Floyd's death. This is a powerful moment for our Nation, and there is a powerful movement in our Nation, a rainbow movement reflecting the wonderful diversity of the whole world. Protests have taken place in over 60 countries and on every continent. Thousands are marching in the streets screaming, ``I can't breathe.'' They are screaming for change, transformative change, change that finally ends police brutality. The movement is calling us to act. What is your answer? I will vote for passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. And today my vote will be dedicated to the parents of Tamir Rice, because today is his 18th birthday. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to oppose this motion to recommit and pass the underlying bill. Mr.…”