Madison: Video Message from Mayor Rhodes-Conway
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~ Madison Mayor Addresses Recent Tragedy and Occupation of Williamson and Baldwin Intersection

Madison, WI- In a press conference held this morning, Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway addressed the recent death of Corey Ruiz and the ongoing occupation of the Williamson and Baldwin intersection. The mayor expressed her condolences to the family of Ruiz and acknowledged the community's grief, anger, and frustration.

Mayor Rhodes-Conway stated that even one death during interactions with the police is too many and that there is more work to be done at both the city and state level to prevent such tragedies from happening again. She assured that the city is fully cooperating with the independent investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice and will respect any decisions made by the District Attorney regarding charges for the officers involved.

The mayor also mentioned that as soon as state law allows, all relevant materials will be provided to the Office of Independent Monitor for their investigation. She emphasized that change takes time and many necessary changes are not within the control of city government.

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For nearly two weeks, Mayor Rhodes-Conway and city staff have been working tirelessly to peacefully resolve the occupation of Williamson and Baldwin without law enforcement intervention. The mayor stated that while she understands it may be unsatisfying to hear that change takes time, it was necessary to ensure a peaceful resolution.

The mayor also addressed concerns about vulnerable individuals caught in the middle of this situation. She stated that efforts were made before and during the occupation to find emergency solutions for unsheltered individuals, which ultimately succeeded in helping dozens of people and families.

This morning, non-law enforcement staff from multiple city agencies led efforts to clear barricades, preserve personal belongings and memorial materials, and open up Williamson and Baldwin streets for normal traffic. However, as city staff worked on clearing the area, they were met with resistance in the form of thrown rocks and two fires being set. Law enforcement was called in to stabilize the scene, resulting in a small number of arrests.

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The mayor also addressed the 50 or so unsheltered individuals who were occupying the intersection, stating that they were given the option to stay in hotels and were offered transportation. The majority of them chose to do so, with around 10 people being placed in hotel rooms yesterday. The mayor assured that this effort was done with compassion under difficult circumstances.

Mayor Rhodes-Conway concluded her address by acknowledging that there are many hard conversations to come and urged the community to come together and have them. She asked for cooperation in allowing local businesses to stay open, residents to freely access their homes, and for the intersection of Williamson and Baldwin streets to remain open. She emphasized the importance of focusing energy on sustainable change rather than harming the community.

In closing, Mayor Rhodes-Conway expressed her belief in a strong and compassionate community that can support each other and work towards change together. She assured that with unity, Madison can get through this difficult time.

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