Code for America is deeply saddened by the brutal and senseless death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of five Memphis police officers. Tyre’s death, like so many before him, is tragic and unacceptable.
At Code for America, our mission is centered on advancing equity through government. This includes work in Memphis to help young Black men who are disproportionately disconnected from education and employment opportunities. As part of Opportunity Accelerator—a place-based initiative to drive economic mobility and reduce racial disparities—we are striving to build government services rooted in the humanity, livelihoods, and well-being of young Black Memphians.
This week our team has been reflecting on the work we are doing in Memphis, and the tragedy its community is experiencing.
While we are still processing this tragedy with the rest of the nation, we stand committed to continuing our work to shift the mental models that uphold the practices and systems that make tragedies like this possible—and to building the capacity for true, lasting systemic change.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Tyre Nichols and all who mourn him, and our sincerest wishes for healing during this painful time.