Chicagoans push for the 'Laquan McDonald Act'

FOX 32 NEWS - A crowd of more than 200 gathered outside Chicago Police headquarters Thursday night to commemorate the life of Laquan McDonald.

Graphic video of his shooting death by a Chicago police officer has been seen worldwide.

A group of community activists are pushing for a new law that would allow citizens to recall local politicians who fail them. They did this all while remembering Laquan McDonald.

The teen was shot 16 times by a Chicago police officer exactly two years ago. Officer Jason Van Dyke is charged with McDonald’s death. Activists say now it's time for more change.

“We want to hold our elected officials accountable,” William Calloway said.

The group is pushing for a state bill known as the 'Laquan McDonald Act' or 'Laquan Law.' They want the ability to recall the mayor, the county state's attorney or alderman through a special election.

Gwendolyn Moore whose son, Jamaal, was killed by Chicago police in 2012 wants to see Laquan’s Law pass. She also called for a bigger solution to Chicago’s violence problem.

"I do not want to see another child gunned down in the street...stop the killing,” Moore said.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel released a statement on the anniversary of McDonald’s death. He said in part..."we will continue working together across the city to build a brighter future by restoring trust between residents and our officers, and implementing the reforms necessary to prevent this from happening again."

Activists say in order to prevent this from happening again, politicians like the mayor need to be held accountable.

Activists say changes already made to CPD and the Cook County State's Attorney's Office aren't enough.

Though the chances of this bill passing may be considered slim, the group will continue to fight for change.