Harris, IBLC comment on Braun’s State of the State address

State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. (D-East Chicago), chair of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC) issued the following statement regarding Gov. Mike Braun's State of the State address:

"Tonight, we heard from Gov. Braun that he believes diversity and equality are cornerstones of what makes America great. That's interesting, because just days into his administration, he signed an executive order banning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) practices from state agencies.

"Let's see some action from the governor by reversing his executive order to reinstate equity and fairness in our state agencies and make it clear that Indiana values diversity. Across the state, we've heard our constituents worry about how they're going to afford their prescriptions and their groceries, their struggles to find a safe home and how to help their children get a good education. With his executive orders, Braun has shown the Hoosier people where his priorities lie. We are concerned with making life easier for the people of Indiana, not targeting our most marginalized citizens.

"Tonight, we in the IBLC hosted a Unity Rally on the fourth floor of the Statehouse during Gov. Braun's address. The purpose of the rally was to send the message to Hoosiers that, when we work together for a common cause, there is very little we can't do to accomplish to make our state a better place for all. This rally was a celebration of diversity, equity and inclusion and an opportunity for citizens to make their voice heard. I hope this gathering was a reminder to all that unity is the only path toward equity."