Race conversations difficult but necessary, West Allis couple says
WEST ALLIS, Wis. - After a jury convicted ex-officer Derek Chauvin of the murder of George Floyd, conversations about race have been at the forefront. That rings true for an interracial couple living in West Allis.
Conversations about race can, at times, be heavy. Jon Johnson and Amy Pelican say while the conversations may be difficult, they're necessary.
The West Allis couple said the Chauvin verdict had them talking. Both said they feel the verdict marks a step in the right direction, but they think there should be more accountability for law enforcement.
"Every time, from George Floyd, to every single case that’s happened, all the way back to Mike Brown, we have hour-long, in-depth conversations about it," said Johnson.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android
The two have been together for eight years and plan to marry in 2022. With two very different backgrounds, the interracial couple has learned how to navigate life together. Pelican said her first major realization about their racial differences came when they considered traveling to Italy.
"He made it aware, like, 'I have to check the climate for me there first,' and like, I never thought of that," said Pelican. "I can go anywhere, probably."
The two make it a point to attend protests and said they will never stop fighting for racial equality.
"I’ve taken off whole weeks of work just to march," said Johnson.
Johnson and Pelican said their conversations about race also extend to family and friends.
"We’ve always been very open with our friends and family about how we feel about everything," said Johnson.
They said they use their discussions on race as an opportunity to grow and welcome others to join their conversations.
"As long as I have a voice and as long as I have a brain, as long as I’m able to intelligently say things, I should also be able to talk to people who have a difference of opinion," said Johnson.
The couple's conversations about race continue through their podcast called The Grand Proclamation.
Featured
Former MPD lieutenant, BLOC director react to Chauvin verdict
A former police lieutenant said law enforcement should be content with the removal of an officer that didn't follow the rules but added that reform takes effort from both sides.
Featured
Family of Jacob Blake, others find hope in Chauvin verdict
A jury found the ex-cop guilt in connection to George Floyd's death. The verdict delivered optimism to those fighting for racial justice.