KVOS Special: Interview with John J. O'Connell

Washington State Attorney General John J. O’Connell is interviewed in this episode. O’Connell begins by discussing the “long hot summer” of race riots which occurred in many U.S. cities that year, and explains why a race riot was unlikely to occur in Washington State. He discusses the social tensions and injustices which led to these outbreaks of chaos and violence, and talks about fair housing legislation. He also mentions, in passing, the similar injustices faced by Native Americans. Next, O’Connell explores the broader topic of soaring crime rates, both nationally and state-wide. He suggests a need to reexamine ineffective punitive measures against crime. Finally, O’Connell calls for major reform of the Washington State Constitution; including a complete constitutional re-write, to be undertaken by a constitutional convention of elected delegates. Users are advised that this resource contains content and outdated language and terms that may be offensive and harmful.