Remembering Marcus-David Peters 3 Years Later

Race Capitol

This week on Race Capitol, we revisit audio from our very first episode in 2018 -- talking about justice for Marcus-David Peters. This Friday, May 14th, 2021 marks three years since Marcus-David Peters was killed by Richmond police officer Michael Nyantakyi while suffering a mental health crisis. Since then, so much has happened; but the Richmond police department and the City of Richmond have yet to be held accountable for his murder, which was ruled a “justifiable homicide”. Even after a global uprising for Black lives - including over 100 days of protest here in Richmond last summer - Marcus’ case has yet to be re-opened, and Richmond commonwealth attorney Colette McEachin has doubled down on the ruling in the case. The community has been clear on what their demands are - and these demands can be met swiftly. Colette McEachin can re-open the case. The police, both Richmond police and Virginia State police, can be defunded and abolished. This year, the Richmond Police have brutalized countless individuals, including many of you, listening to this show. They shot Orlando Carter Jr. from behind on New Year’s Eve, and continue to maintain that there was nothing wrong with their actions. We know that the police are violent, and we will not be silent. Our silence can cost us our lives and the future of our descendants. we start by hearing from Princess Blanding, sister to Marcus-David Peters, and Princess, by the way, is currently a candidate for governor here in Virginia. After that, we hear city council testimony from community organizer Rebecca Keel, and delve into co-host Chelsea Higgs Wise’s conversation with Dr. Eli Coston and Cory “Ulysses” Carter of the VCU YDSA chapter in 2018. We will also revisit some archived audio along the way. This weekend, Marcus-David Peters’ family and the community will gather at Marcus David Peters circle together for a celebration of life beginning at 1pm on Saturday, May 15th.