Amnesty
International Urges Chicago to End Police Brutality Toward
Gays

The Chicago Sun Timesreported Friday that Amnesty International has taken an active role in trying to end the police brutality suffered by some of the city's LGBT citizens. According to civil rights activists, the Chicago Police Departmenthas a contract in place that prevents any investigation by or involvement from the Independent Police Review Authority. The activists suggested that this contract offers too much protection for the city's crooked cops. Amnesty International's involvement comes at a crucial time for the Windy City, which currently has an Olympic bid for the 2016 games. Ariel Herrera of Amnesty International's USA human rights program told the Sun Times, "At a time when Chicago is competing to host the 2016 Olympics, Amnesty International believes the city must meet its obligation to respect international human rights protections." Herrera referenced the case of Alexander Ruppert, who in June 2006 sustained a broken nose and 16 stitches to his left eye after allegedly being kicked, punched, and verbally abused by police officers.

Along with pressuring Chicago mayor Richard Daley to find a solution, Amnesty International may recommend that the city's Olympic bid be denied, according to the Sun Times. (The Advocate)