EXCLUSIVE: Congressman Hank Johnson Speaks Out Against Heavy-Handed Policing on College Campuses

During a recent interview on The Rashad Richey Morning Show , Congressman Hank Johnson drew attention to the alarming trend of heavy-handed law enforcement responses to peaceful demonstrations on college campuses. The conversation shed light on the use of violent tactics by authorities and the unjust treatment of protesters, raising concerns about the erosion of civil liberties and freedom of assembly.

The conversation began with Congressman Johnson expressing his distress over the deployment of Georgia State Patrol officers on Emory University's campus . He spoke on the indiscriminate use of force and described witnessing a disturbing incident where a restrained individual was repeatedly stunned with a taser, questioning the excessive measures taken by law enforcement.

Congressman Johnson highlighted the disconnect between the role of the Georgia State Patrol, which is primarily tasked with investigating traffic crashes and enforcing traffic and criminal laws on state roads, and their presence on a private university campus. He emphasized that the heavy-handed response to peaceful protests not only violates the rights of the protesters but also raises serious questions about the motives behind such actions.

As the conversation unfolded, Congressman Johnson denounced the politicization of peaceful demonstrations and the demonization of protesters as terrorists. He pointed out the insidious influence of white nationalist operatives who seek to provoke violence and tarnish the reputation of legitimate protest movements. Congressman Johnson warned against falling into the trap laid by those who aim to undermine the fundamental right to dissent and speak out against injustice.

Moreover, the interview touched on the upcoming elections and the crucial role of democracy in safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. Both Congressman Johnson and Dr. Richey underscored the importance of active participation in the electoral process to uphold democratic values and resist authoritarian tendencies that threaten the fabric of society.

To listen to the full interview, click the link above.

Dr. Rashad Richey, host of the award-winning ‘Rashad Richey Morning Show’ on News & Talk 1380 – WAOK/V-103FM (HD3) (Weekdays 7am -10am), and the ‘Dr. Rashad Richey Review’ on SiriusXM’s Urban View (Sundays at 1pm and 9pm), was voted 'Best Talk Radio Personality in Atlanta' by readers of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and named 'Most Trusted Voice in Atlanta' by the Atlanta Business Journal, making him the first African-American to receive these distinctions.