In a poignant testimony before the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, Dr. Shalair Armstrong shared her heartbreaking experience as a mother seeking justice for her son, Christian Cousins, who was murdered at just 17 years old. Dr. Armstrong's emotional appeal highlighted the ongoing struggle faced by families of homicide victims, particularly those from marginalized communities, as they navigate a system that often leaves their cases unresolved.

Dr. Armstrong, representing the Christian Cousins Entrepreneurial Endowment Fund, emphasized the profound trauma inflicted by unsolved homicides. She described the relentless pain of living without answers, stating, "When a loved one is murdered, the trauma is catastrophic. But when the case grows cold, the suffering is prolonged indefinitely." Her testimony underscored the urgent need for systemic change, as she pointed out alarming disparities in case resolutions based on race. According to a 2022 study, only 47% of homicide cases involving Black victims are cleared by arrest, compared to 75% for white victims.

The emotional toll of these unresolved cases was palpable in Dr. Armstrong's words, as she recounted the sleepless nights and constant search for information about her son's case, which she believes was deprioritized from the start. "This seems like a systemic bias in action," she stated, calling for accountability and support for families like hers.

Dr. Armstrong urged the committee to pass House Bill 2177, which aims to provide critical support for families of homicide victims. "No family should have to beg for answers," she implored, emphasizing the erosion of trust in the justice system. Her testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the need for action and reform to ensure that all victims receive the justice they deserve. As the committee considers this bill, the implications for families across Massachusetts hang in the balance, highlighting the urgent need for a more equitable approach to justice.