CHC Chair Barragán & Rep. Castro Statement on Lack of Discipline for Texas Judge Who Used Racial Slurs Against Latino Defendants

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

CHC Communications | Brian Garcia | brian.garcia3@mail.house.gov

Rep. Joaquin Castro | Geneva Kropper | Geneva@mail.house.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Nanette Barragán and Representative Joaquin Castro (TX-20) issued a joint statement on the Texas State Commission on Judicial Conduct’s decision to forgo disciplinary action against Texas Judge Allen Amos, who used racial slurs to describe Latino defendants. 

“I’m appalled by the Texas State Commission on Judicial Conduct’s decision to dismiss the racist comments made by Judge Allen Amos against Latinos,” said Chair Barragán “Any form of racism, especially by those in positions of power, must be publicly reprimanded to protect minority communities and their civil rights. I urge the Commission to protect Latinos and minority groups by holding Judge Allen Amos accountable with proper disciplinary action.” 

"Hispanics make up 40 percent of Texas — the largest share of any group — yet we are often still treated with incredible disrespect by state institutions. The Texas State Commission on Judicial Conduct's refusal to hold Judge Allen Amos accountable for calling Latino defendants 'wetbacks' highlights that utter disregard for our well-being and civil rights," said Rep. Castro. "Members of the Commission who failed to recommend action against Amos' bigotry are an embarrassment to the Bench, the State Bar of Texas, and the Texas citizenry."

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