Indianapolis Clergy Petition Governor Braun to Denounce Lt. Gov. Beckwith’s Remarks on Three-Fifths Compromise
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A coalition of Indianapolis clergy has delivered a petition to Republican Governor Mike Braun, urging him to publicly denounce comments made by Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith, who recently praised the Three-Fifths Compromise. During a gathering at Grace Missionary Baptist Church, clergy members condemned Beckwith’s remarks as harmful and disrespectful to Black residents, asserting they deny their humanity.
The Three-Fifths Compromise, a provision of the original U.S. Constitution, counted enslaved individuals as three-fifths of a person for congressional representation. This measure was abolished by the Fourteenth Amendment in 1868. Beckwith, who is a pastor, referred to the Compromise as "a great move" in a social media post, where he remarked on the backlash his comments received.
Rev. Gray Lesesne criticized Beckwith, saying, "What you said causes harm to the Black citizens of our state." Meanwhile, Rev. Dr. David Greene Sr. emphasized the need for action from Governor Braun, highlighting the ongoing harmful rhetoric from Beckwith.
Although News 8 reached out for comments, neither Braun’s nor Beckwith’s offices responded. Previously, Braun acknowledged he wouldn’t have used Beckwith’s characterization but opted to refrain from significant public commentary on the issue.
This petition reflects the clergy’s commitment to addressing what they perceive as racially charged statements that impact community unity and respect.
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