"As the City Council Representative for District 8, I am calling for an immediate investigation into the incident that occurred at the Rainbow Lounge on June 28th. Multiple firsthand accounts report excessive use of force by officers with the Fort Worth Police Department and/or the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission. These reports, coupled with the fact that a young man has been admitted to John Peter Smith Hospital with facial bruises and a brain injury, are disturbing and warrant an immediate comprehensive investigation.

"I join with Councilman Joel Burns in wanting all citizens of Texas and Fort Worth to know and be assured that the laws and ordinances of our City will be applied fairly, equally and without selective enforcement or targeting. As an African American I understand the distrust and fear that grows throughout a community when the belief that there is no recourse or protection is allowed to grow and fester.

"I want every resident of Fort Worth to have the confidence of knowing that when tough issues such as this arise, we will require a full accounting of actions and demand honest and complete answers. Rest assured that neither the people of Fort Worth, nor the city government of Fort Worth, will tolerate discrimination against any of its citizens.

"It is truly ironic and unfortunate that this incident occurred on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall protests. Unlike 40 years ago, though, the people of this community have elective representation that will make sure our government is accountable and that the rights of all of its citizens are protected.

"For more information, please contact my assistant, Will Trevino, at (817) 392-8808."  -- Fort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Kathleen Hicks