Vice President demands swift passage of George Floyd Justice and Policing Act following brutal killing of Tyre Nichols by police officers.

At the funeral of Tyre Nichols in Memphis, US Vice President Kamala Harris called for urgent reform in policing across the nation. Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, died after being brutally beaten by five officers during a traffic stop on January 7. Footage of the incident showed Nichols being punched, kicked, and pepper sprayed, with the officers now facing charges of second-degree murder, assault, kidnapping, official misconduct, and oppression.

During the emotional service, Harris demanded that Congress pass the George Floyd Justice and Policing Act, a bill aimed at reforming police practices and increasing accountability within law enforcement. She stated that President Joe Biden would sign the bill into law and emphasised that delaying the reform was “non-negotiable.”

Reflecting on Nichols’ tragic death, Harris addressed the assembly, stating, “This family lost their loved one due to violence at the hands of those charged with ensuring their safety. Was Tyre Nichols not entitled to safety?”

Reverend Al Sharpton also delivered a powerful speech, echoing Harris’ calls for legislative action and urging Congress to pass the reform bill. The assault has ignited peaceful protests across the country, calling for an end to police violence.

Reverend Dr. J. Lawrence Turner, who officiated the service, spoke of Nichols as a “good person” whose life was unjustly cut short. He emphasised the need for “comprehensive legislative reform” to prevent further violence against Black lives, stating, “We have come and we shall overcome.”

The tragic event has reignited national discussions about police brutality, with activists and lawmakers pushing for lasting change.