Washington, D.C. — This week, our nation’s capital became the setting for a powerful convergence of grief, strength, and resistance as family members of those unalived by police gathered in solidarity. From Black Lives Matter Plaza—a space once targeted for removal by former President Trump—to the halls of the Mayflower Hotel, these modern-day Griots carried forth the oral tradition of truth-telling, reclaiming space and history in the name of justice.
Among the attendees is our own Anita L. Wills, a proud elder, activist, and grandmother of Kerry Baxter Jr., whose life was stolen by state violence. Representing Mothers Against Police Brutality, Anita is in D.C. not only to speak out at the 6th Annual Clinton R. Allen Speakout Against Police Brutality but also to meet with elected officials and speak truth to power. Her presence embodies the spirit of a Griot—keeping memory alive, ensuring that Black voices remain not only heard but centered in the fight for justice.
“They are destroying our history, and that is why we must continue the Griot Tradition! They will not silence our voices!” – C-Note
A powerful group photo was taken in front of the Black Lives Matter mural—an image filled with mothers and families holding pictures of their murdered loved ones. Each frame tells a story that this country must not forget. As Anita remarked, “This is our group picture with our murdered loved ones. We have all had our loved ones unalived by police.” The moment was both sacred and defiant, an act of remembrance and protest.
The week in D.C. has been a blend of solemn testimony and lighthearted moments. Anita shared a humorous airport story: when asked by a TSA agent to remove her shoes, she replied, “I thought we didn’t have to if we were over 70.” The agent, shocked by her youthful appearance, guessed she was under 60. Anita laughed, “Now I know!” The exchange, while amusing, served as a reminder of the grace and resilience that elders like her bring to this movement.
At the panel discussion, where every speaker was a survivor of state violence through the loss of a loved one, Anita stood tall—both literally and metaphorically—towards the end of the program. Her words, like those of the other speakers, were not just testimony but a call to conscience.
This is not just a convening. This is not just an event. This is the Griot tradition in action—living, breathing, and marching forward. From Black Lives Matter Plaza to the chambers of Congress, the voices of the unforgotten ring out with purpose.