Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights Issues Statement on Passage of Unsolved Lynching Law

Lansing, MI-John E. Johnson, Jr., Executive Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR), today issued the following statement on the passage and signing of the federal Unsolved Lynching Law.

"The lynching of thousands of Black men, women and children is a painful scar etched into the history of this country. As difficult as it is to face this ugly reality, it is our duty to give these crimes the rigorous investigation they warrant. We believe this legislation will advance the cause of justice, not only for the individuals and families whose lives were destroyed, but for the country as a whole. We applaud President Biden for signing this bill into law and look forward to the investigation and resolution of many unsolved crimes."

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights is charged with investigating and resolving complaints of discrimination and working to prevent discrimination through educational programs that promote voluntary compliance with civil rights laws. The Department also provides training and services to government agencies, businesses, schools and organizations on diversity initiatives, fair housing and equal employment law. MDCR is the operational arm of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission (MCRC). Learn more about MDCR and MCRC at http://www.michigan.gov/mdcr.