Public Statements
We have tremendous respect and admiration for our partner organizations. Below are public statements released from our partner organizations in relation to the tragic killing of a 13-year-old member of our community - Nyah Mway.
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The Justice For Nyah Mway Team and Nyah Mway's family extend our deepest condolences to the family of Robert Brooks
Like Nyah Mway’s murder, the tragic and senseless killing of Mr. Brooks at the hands of law enforcement underscores the systemic issues of police brutality and abuse of power that continue to plague our communities.
This horrific incident serves as yet another stark reminder that the current system fails to ensure the safety and well-being of marginalized individuals. The pattern of police brutality, often concealed behind closed doors, or unrecorded incidents, erodes trust and fuels fear within our communities. When those entrusted with upholding the law become the perpetrators of violence, the very foundations of justice and safety are shattered.
We unequivocally condemn the abuse of power in all its forms. The losses of Nyah Mway and Robert Brooks are devastating blows to their families and a profound loss to our society. This abuse of power has once again shattered community trust in the criminal justice system and our institution’s ability to uphold those in power accountable for their actions. During this time, we must actively resist attempts by mainstream media and politicians to promote a distorted narrative—one that seeks to blame or shame the deceased and their communities while glossing over the harsh realities of police misconduct with stories of exceptionalism and positivity. This is especially critical when the reality, captured in fleeting clips from barely activated cameras or muted audio, often reveals a far more troubling and deeply unsettling truth.
The Justice for Nyah Mway Team stands in solidarity with all families impacted by police violence and systemic injustice. We extend our unwavering support to Robert Brooks' family, standing united in the pursuit of accountability, reform, and justice for all victims of law enforcement abuse. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to challenging systemic oppression and working towards a safer, more equitable future for all.
We urge everyone to stand with the families of Robert Brooks at the State office building in Utica on January 11, 2025 at 12pm. It is time for those in power to be held accountable for their actions and for necessary changes to be made to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
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Statement from the Utica-Oneida County branch of the NAACP on the tragic death of Nyah Mway
The Utica-Oneida County Branch of the NAACP extends our deepest condolences to the family of Nyah Mway and the Karen community. We recognize the many ways that this loss has left our entire city in deep mourning and emotional turmoil.
Whether locally or on the state and national level, the NAACP is truly committed to providing support for the family and the Karen community as they seek justice for their loved one. We echo the call to action and the need to continue the vital work of keeping our children and community safe.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Freddie Hamilton
President, NAACP Utica-Oneida County Branch 2167
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Karen Organization of America Condemns the Tragic Murder of 13-Year-Old Nyah Mway
July 06, 2024
We at Karen Organization of America (KOA) stand in solidarity with Nyah Mway and Utica Karen community and unequivocally condemn the instances of police brutality and gun violence they have experienced. It is deeply troubling and unacceptable that individuals who have already faced displacement and hardship are further subjected to violence and injustice in their new communities.
The Karen refugee community have shown incredible resilience and courage in rebuilding their lives amidst adversity. Yet, their journey to safety should not be marred by discrimination, mistreatment, or violence from any quarter, including law enforcement.
We condemn the use of excessive force and violence by police against the Nyah Mway and the community at large. Every instance of brutality not only harms individuals physically and emotionally but also undermines trust and safety between the Karen communities and law enforcement agencies.
Similarly, we denounce gun violence that affects the communities of color at large. The accessibility and misuse of firearms continue to inflict unnecessary harm and trauma, further exacerbating the challenges they already face.
As advocates for justice and human rights, we call for accountability and systemic reforms within law enforcement to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background or status, are treated with dignity and respect. We urge authorities to prioritize de-escalation tactics, cultural sensitivity training, and community engagement to prevent future injustices.
In solidarity with Nyah Mway and his family, we pledge to amplify their voices, support their aspirations, and work towards a future where they can thrive without fear of violence or discrimination. Together, we must strive for a society that upholds the rights and dignity of every individual, fostering inclusivity, equity, and justice for all.
For further information and inquiries, please contact: justicefornyah@gmail.com
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Karen Organization of San Diego Condemns the Murdering of 13-year old Nyah Mway
July 06, 2024
The Karen Organization of San Diego is deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic shooting of 13-year-old Nyah Mway by police in Utica, New York. Our prayers are with Nyah's family and friends as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Nyah's death is a devastating reminder of the systemic issues within our law enforcement agencies that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. We call for a thorough, transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Nyah's death and demand that those responsible be held accountable.
The Karen community, along with our allies, stand united in our grief and our demand for justice. We call on lawmakers to address and dismantle the systemic racism and violence that led to this tragedy and to invest in initiatives that support the health and wellness of our youth. This includes reallocating budgets to prioritize our communities and people by funding extracurricular programs, mental health resources, and other public health investments instead of policing and criminalization to prevent such violence from occurring in the future.
The Karen community has faced immense challenges and struggles due to ethnic persecutions in Burma for more than 75 ears and the refugee resettlement process. The added burden of such senseless violence deeply wounds our collective spirit and hampers our ability to heal and thrive in our new home.
To support Nyah's family during this difficult time, we encourage donations to the GoFundMe page setup to cover legal costs and other expenses. Additionally, a dedicated website, Justice for Nyah, has been established to provide updates and information on the case. We urge our community members and allies to come together in solidarity, to mourn, to protest, and to push for the changes needed to ensure that no other family has to endure such a loss.
Together, we will honor Nyah's memory and fight for a future where justice prevails.
Contact: Karen Organization of San Diego: info@karensandiego.org, 619-582-0783