Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Commends the Third Circuit Court of Appeal for Ruling in Jena, LA Case

(Philadelphia, PA) September 17, 2007 - The 31st Grand Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Dwayne M. Murray, released a statement on Monday, commending the Third Circuit Court of Appeals for overturning the conviction of Mychal Bell, 17, one of the "Jena 6" and encourages the Jena District Attorney Reed Walters to drop his appeal of the decision.

"In a time when we enthusiastically and passionately teach young people about the great promise that America provides and the belief in equal justice under the law for all citizens, we believe the Circuit Court of Appeal has assisted in making those lessons easier to teach by providing an initial and beneficial step in legal relief for the Bell family and the entire community of Jena," Grand Polemarch Murray said in addressing last week's decision to overturn the conviction of the Bell ruling that his case did not belong in adult court.

"In cases such as this, we need to ensure that we treat young people as young people and suggest to them that society is not bent on locking them away but training them for leadership." Murray said. "Locking a teenager up for most of his adult life is not the message we should be sending in today's society."

Grand Polemarch Murray has called upon the National Bar Association to assemble a legal team to review the transcripts of the proceedings, to monitor this matter closely and to offer legal assistance where needed. Kappa Alpha Psi offers its sociologist, psychologist and other professionals to help students, teachers and families of those affected to better manage this matter. Kappa Alpha Psi will coordinate, participate in discussions and accompany National Bar Association president, Varnita Banks of Chicago as she visits the offices of statewide elected officials in Baton Rouge, LA on Wednesday, September 19, 2007.

Murray ended his statement by adding, "I pray that when this case has reached its conclusion, all parties involved in this unfortunate tragedy will come together and heal its open wounds for the sake of the entire community. I hope the District Attorney listens to the wisdom of the higher court. Justice for all should be the theme as this matter moves forward."