Aurora City Council Limits Public Comment Amid Protests Over Police Shooting

The Aurora City Council has voted to restrict public comments at its meetings by allowing only one person at the podium at a time, with exceptions for individuals with disabilities, interpreters, and children. This decision follows months of protests demanding justice for Kilyn Lewis, an unarmed Black man fatally shot by Aurora police in 2023, whose death has spurred ongoing calls for accountability despite official investigations clearing the officer involved. Supporters of the rule argue it will improve safety and order during meetings, while opponents say it unfairly limits community members' ability to support one another and silences public voices. The vote was split, with some councilmembers emphasizing the importance of public solidarity in the face of power imbalances between officials and residents. Protestors and Lewis's family have continued to attend meetings, pressing for action against the officer. The community remains divided over the council's response, reflecting broader tensions around police accountability and civic engagement.