On Thursday, April 6, Tennessee State Representatives Justin Jones and Justin Pearson were expelled from the Tennessee House of Representatives for their participation in a demonstration in support of gun reform. Following widespread public outcry calling for the reappointment of the two young Black politicians, Rep. Jones was temporarily reinstated to his position on April 10th and Rep. Pearson was temporarily reinstated on April 12th. NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson released this statement in response:
"This is America - where you receive more legislative 'action' for calling out the need for gun control than for actually addressing the loss of life as a result of gun violence. It is disappointing, but not surprising, to know that some lawmakers in Tennessee would rather spend precious time removing these brave young Black men from their duly elected positions than take a stance against inadequate gun policies. Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson have demonstrated incredible leadership and commitment to protecting their constituents and our democracy through their unwavering support of gun reform in the absence of action from their state-level peers and legislative colleagues at the federal level."
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