"Like so many of you, I have been having daily heart-to-heart conversations with family, friends, Chandler residents, business owners, community leaders, City employees and others.
The violent deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and so many others who have lost their lives at the hands of inequality and injustice are tragically wrong. These and other traumas inflicted on our nation must compel Americans to come together, respect each other and take steps forward to enact changes that positively impact our communities.
Voices from across the nation have called for discussion, education and action. As a community leader, I have spent decades serving our community, listening, meeting and addressing our commitment that Chandler continues to work to be a place of equity and equal opportunity for every person.
These conversations are ongoing and we will continue to work with our community, Chandler’s Diversity Office, the Human Relations Commission and the Citizens' Panel for Review of Police Complaints and Use of Force to ensure that discussion results action.
I stand with the peaceful protesters and our diverse residents, leaders, educators, business community and those who have poured their hearts and souls into this City.
I stand with our public safety professionals as they continue to serve us and implement best practices regarding policing standards and training.
And I stand with those across the nation who have suffered from social injustice and inequality.
We are always better, together." -- Mayor Kevin Hartke