Attorney General Loretta Lynch to peaceful protesters: Your voice is important

On Friday, Attorney General Loretta Lynch said this last week has been one of "profound grief and heartbreaking loss" following two police-involved shootings of black men, and Thursday's sniper attacks on Dallas police that killed five officers. She addressed the sense of helplessness and fear gripping the country, but called on Americans to react not with violence, but with peaceful action. "We must continue working to build trust between communities and law enforcement," she said. "We must continue working to guarantee every person in this country equal justice under the law." Lynch also said the Department of Justice is working closely with local Dallas authorities to investigate the attack.

She ended her address with a call to peaceful protesters, like those marching before shots rang out in downtown Dallas Thursday night: "Your voice is important," she said. "Do not be discouraged by those who would use your lawful actions as a cover for their heinous violence. We will continue to safeguard your constitutional rights and work with you in the difficult mission of building a better nation and a brighter future."

You can read Lynch's full statement here.

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