Mayor Rahm Emanuel was heckled Wednesday at Chicago's Urban Prep Academy as students began shouting “16 shots, 16 shots” at the end of an assembly to announce Emanuel's citywide strategy to expand opportunities for minority youth.
The assembly marked the first public event in a week for Emanuel, who visits the school often to honor its 100 percent graduation rate.
During his brief speech to students, Emanuel alluded to the city’s crisis since the release of dashcam video showing the fatal police shooting of Laquan McDonald, noting "it’s a particular time in the city.”
He also announced he will form a new cabinet for the My Brother’s Keeper program, which calls upon cities to implement a comprehensive strategy "aimed at improving life outcomes and success for minority youth."
Emanuel has faced mounting criticism over the handling of the McDonald case. Last week, protesters descended on Chicago calling for Emanuel's resignation and shouting "16 shots."
“The Mayor recognizes that Chicagoans are understandably frustrated," Emanuel's spokeswoman said in a statement after the assembly. "He has called for systemic reform to bring safety to every community and rebuild trust where it has been lost. As part of that process he will continue to engage with residents, police, and community leaders to address their specific concerns.”
