Group rallies downtown after judge suspended for alleged racist comments

PITTSBURGH — The NAACP, Black Political Empowerment Project and other groups gathered in downtown Pittsburgh Tuesday to rally against a judge who was suspended for making alleged racist comments.

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Judge Mark Tranquilli was suspended after referring to a black female juror as “Aunt Jemima” repeatedly in comments he made in his chambers. The comments followed the acquittal of a drug suspect last month.

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“A judge sits high for a reason and they’re supposed to be fair,” one speaker said at the rally.

In a letter sent to state lawmakers, the groups said this issue now is cause for concern in relation to cases Tranquilli presided over involving African Americans.

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January 2014 – Tranquilli took bench as Common Pleas Court judge

January 24, 2020 – Tranquilli allegedly made racist comments

February 4, 2020 – Tranquilli reassigned to oversee lesser cases

February 6, 2020 – Tranquilli reassigned to administrative duties

2023 – Tranquilli’s term expires

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Right now, it’s unclear what lies ahead for Tranquilli. Also still in limbo are cases Tranquilly presided over.

Channel 11 reached out to Tranquilli’s office, who said they could not comment.

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