A Black Lives Matter leader’s call for “black vigilantes” following Daniel Penny’s acquittal sparks controversy and reignites racial tensions.
At a Glance
- Hawk Newsome, a BLM leader, called for “black vigilantes” after Daniel Penny’s acquittal
- Penny, a former Marine, was found not guilty in the death of Jordan Neely on a NYC subway
- Neely’s death, ruled a homicide, occurred after Penny held him in a chokehold
- The case has reignited discussions about racial justice and self-defense
- Protests erupted following the verdict, with calls for justice and community action
Controversial Verdict Sparks Outcry
The acquittal of Daniel Penny, a former Marine, in the death of Jordan Neely has ignited a firestorm of controversy and renewed debates about racial justice in America. Penny was found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide after holding Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, in a chokehold on a New York City subway train in May 2023. The incident, which resulted in Neely’s death, was ruled a homicide by medical examiners.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg initially charged Penny with manslaughter, which was later dismissed, and criminally negligent homicide, carrying a potential four-year sentence. Witnesses had described Neely’s behavior as erratic and threatening before the chokehold incident. The case has sparked intense public discourse, with supporters of both Penny and Neely voicing their opinions.
The acquittal of Daniel Penny in the death of Jordan Neely has effectively given license for vigilante justice to be waged on the Black community without consequence.
It's a painful reminder of the inequities in our justice system. Jordan deserved compassion. Instead, he was met… https://t.co/JOdxjZJXBi
— NAACP (@NAACP) December 9, 2024
BLM Leader’s Controversial Response
In the wake of the verdict, Hawk Newsome, a prominent Black Lives Matter leader, made headlines with his provocative call for “black vigilantes” to mobilize in metropolitan centers. Newsome’s statement has drawn both support and criticism, highlighting the deep divisions and frustrations within communities grappling with issues of racial justice and systemic inequalities.
“Like everybody else has vigilantes, we need some black vigilantes,” Newsome stated, expressing frustration with the justice system and calling for community action.
Newsome urged black communities to hold events and discuss their needs instead of just marching. He emphasized self-reliance for black safety, stating, “We patrol our community. We keep us safe.” This call for action reflects a growing sentiment among some activists that traditional methods of protest may not be sufficient to address perceived injustices.
Broader Implications and Community Response
The case has reignited sensitive discussions about racial prejudice, self-defense, and the criminal justice system. Protesters supporting Neely gathered outside the courtroom, chanting for justice and expressing their anger at the verdict. Some labeled Penny the ‘subway strangler’ and warned of potential unrest if justice was not served.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this high-profile case, the call for vigilantism raises serious concerns about public safety and the potential for escalating tensions. Law enforcement and community leaders face the challenge of addressing these concerns while working towards meaningful dialogue and reform within the criminal justice system.
Sources:
BLM Leader Calls for Retaliation After Daniel Penny Acquittal
New York Black Lives Matter leader calls for ‘black vigilantes’ following Daniel Penny verdict
