University of Missouri men's basketball coach Cuonzo Martin made his first public comments Sunday on the killing of George Floyd by a police officer in Minneapolis.
The 48-year old Martin is an East St. Louis native and he posted a powerful statement on Twitter and Instagram.
“It has to stop," Martin wrote. "The violence toward people of color, the hate, the racism, the systemic oppression. It has to stop. Our voices matter. Our LIVES matter. For too long, we’ve see it time and time again — from Dr. King’s marches to the LA riots, and our fight today — it’s gone on far too long and it cannot keep happening.
“I am heartbroken at the murder of George Floyd and so many others, and to see them senselessly ripped away from loved ones. I am a husband, a parent and a leader of inspiring young black men. We shouldn’t have to live in fear —enough is enough. While I’m on this earth, my voice won’t be silent until the injustice stops.
“It goes beyond a post on social media. It’s time to join together in our pain, to mourn, to stand united against oppression and ACT to create change. We must live and lead with compassion for one another. Now, more than ever before, it’s important to love each other, to listen to each other and grow together. All a man ever wants to do is be respected. We must do better. It has to stop.”