Richmond, Va. – Today, Richmond mayoral candidate and City Councilmember Andreas Addison released the following statement addressing law enforcement’s response to student demonstrations on the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) campus. 

“As a college professor, I recognize the sanctity of college campuses as spaces for students to gather, share, and express ideas safely. Throughout our nation’s history, student demonstrations have played a pivotal role in raising awareness on critical issues, asking important social questions, and calling on leaders to take action and protect our communities. Along with the inherent right to free speech, all students are also entitled to protection from hate, bigotry, and violence on campus.    

“Last night, law enforcement made the decision to escalate an otherwise peaceful demonstration on VCU’s campus by violently confronting unarmed protesters and deploying chemical agents. This level of response was wholly uncalled for and put the safety of demonstrators and bystanders at risk, including local journalists whose First Amendment rights are also protected.

“Here's the thing – this is not the first time, nor will it be the last time students and community members take to the streets to protest for change. We have to make sure the right to peaceably assemble is protected while ensuring everyone's safety. That includes conversation and de-escalation without the use of force.  The community asked us four years ago to do more than take down the monuments, and we have a responsibility as a city to achieve the reforms that Richmonders are asking for to keep people safe. For starters, an independent and fully operational Civilian Review Board and a comprehensive and transparent review of RPD’s use of force policies are needed. 

“Instead of repeating history by issuing apologies after the fact, let’s learn from those lessons by listening and answering calls to action with lasting policy solutions that address the underlying issues at the center of protest.”

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About Andreas Addison

Andreas Addison is a public servant, small business owner, and educator serving the Richmond community for over 15 years. Addison represents the 1st District on Richmond City Council, with a proven track record of fighting for affordable housing, greater connectivity in the region, and investments for greater city services. He is the owner of Pure Fitness RVA in Scott’s Addition and is an adjunct professor at UVA in the School of Public Policy. A strong advocate for thriving communities, Addison is committed to a socially equitable, environmentally sustainable, and prosperous Richmond for working families. Addison married his wife, Allison, in 2023, and the couple resides in the Museum District. Join the movement at andreasaddison.com.