In a move that has left many outraged, Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott is working “as swiftly” as possible to pardon a U.S. Army sergeant convicted of murdering a Black Lives Matter protester in 2020. Daniel Perry was found guilty on Friday for the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Air Force veteran Garrett Foster, mere blocks from the Texas state Capitol. Perry was also convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Now, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has launched an investigation into Governor Abbott’s request for an expedited pardon.
Hiram Gilberto Garcia, an independent journalist who live-streamed the tragic event and was the first witness to testify at Daniel Perry’s murder trial, joined us to discuss the case. Also present was Rick Cofer, a former Travis County assistant district attorney. The two shared their insights and concerns about the impact of Governor Abbott’s actions on the fight for racial justice and the Black Lives Matter movement.
This controversial decision to seek a pardon for Perry is a slap in the face to the countless individuals fighting for equality and justice. It raises serious questions about the priorities and values of those in power, particularly when it comes to addressing systemic racism and supporting marginalized communities. The fact that Governor Abbott is pushing for an expedited pardon, in this case, sends a chilling message to activists and protesters alike.
As young and millennial readers of The Young Turks, we must stand up against these blatant attempts to undermine the pursuit of justice and equality. We cannot let the hard work of activists be swept aside by political agendas that only serve to perpetuate the status quo. It’s crucial that we continue to raise our voices, hold our elected officials accountable, and demand change in the face of such outrageous actions.
