The Los Angeles LGBT Center Condemns Civilian Killings by LAPD

LOS ANGELES, January 12, 2023— In response to the video footage released by the LAPD, the Los Angeles LGBT Center issued the following statement: 

The Los Angeles LGBT Center is deeply disturbed by the recently released video footage that shows the deaths of three Angelenos at the hands of the LAPD. We condemn this deadly use of force, and we support Mayor Karen Bass’ call for the City’s full investigation into the tragic deaths of Takar Smith, Keenan Anderson, and Oscar Sanchez—three Black and Brown men who fell victim to the all-too-familiar patterns of police brutality. We also echo the Mayor’s demands for immediate reforms on police use of force and the need for increased mental health interventions. 

No matter the outcome, the resounding call for change has been loud and clear: Los Angeles needs police reform now. While we wait for the findings of the investigation to be made public, our deepest  condolences are with the families and loved ones of the Angelenos whose lives were cut short at the hands of police brutality. 

About the Los Angeles LGBT Center

Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center’s nearly 800 employees provide services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy. We are an unstoppable force in the fight against bigotry and the struggle to build a better world; a world in which LGBT people thrive as healthy, equal, and complete members of society. Learn more at lalgbtcenter.org.