DENVER — Senate President Leroy Garcia, who represents Senate District 3 (Pueblo and Pueblo West), issued a statement Saturday on the ongoing demonstrations in Denver.
Garcia is dealing directly with the aftermath of the violent protests at the capitol building. He was inside the capitol as protesters smashed up his truck that was parked outside. He said has no problem with public demonstrations at the capitol building. It is evidence of democracy. "We are very accustomed to protests and demonstrations and generally 98% of the are always peaceful. Yesterday was different," Garcia said.
The statement from Garcia is as follows:
“As the only member of color on leadership in the General Assembly, I understand and empathize with the pain and horror so many are feeling. I stand with those peacefully protesting for change. The system is still broken, but I believe that we can fight back through protests as well as through policy. We must be aware of agitators and instigators who use legitimate protests to ignite chaos between protestors and police. Those seeking only to destruct and destroy should not be associated with those asking for change. With the recent announcement by the governor to deploy the National Guard, I must emphasize that their first priority should be the health and safety of those who choose to demonstrate. We cannot allow the militarization of our great state.”
RELATED:
Colorado Senate President, Leroy Garcia's truck vandalized during protest at capitol
Governor Polis issues statement on Denver demonstrations
Peaceful protests demanding justice for George Floyd in Denver turn violent for a 2nd straight day
Denver police looking to identify driver who appeared to hit pedestrian during protest Thursday
