Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, Deputy Leader, and Co-chair of the Council's Task Force to Combat Gun Violence released the following statement after 17-year-old Tyreke Borel and 22-year-old Tiarah Poyau were killed early Monday morning during J'Ouvert.
"It's with a heavy heart that there is need to write another letter like this one. I send prayers of peace and comfort to the families of Tyreke Borel and Tiarah Poyau, who lost their lives during what should have been a time of festivities and not fear. I'd also like to send prayers of speedy recovery for the victims who survived. It's unfortunate that as a community, a joyous time like the Carnival season has once again been marred by incidents of gun violence.
"The primary thing we should be doing now is supporting those families who are in mourning, and dealing intimately with the impacts of violence. After that there will be sufficient time to fully discuss what actions should be taken as it relates to next year's season, and J'Ouvert in particular.
"We should also continue a very real discussion about gun violence as a whole. The type of violence that takes place during J'Ouvert should be inclusive of the epidemic that plagues our communities year round. An honest discussion is owed to those who are dealing with this chronic type of violence."
Editor's Note:
Councilman Jumaane Williams represents the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Flatlands, and parts of Midwood and Canarsie.
Editor's Note:
Councilman Jumaane Williams represents the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Flatlands, and parts of Midwood and Canarsie.
