Black Lives Matter leader Hawk Newsome’s call for “black vigilantes” following Daniel Penny’s acquittal ignites debate on race and justice.
At a Glance
- BLM leader Hawk Newsome calls for “black vigilantes” after Daniel Penny’s acquittal
- Penny, a former Marine, found not guilty in Jordan Neely’s death on NYC subway
- Neely’s death ruled homicide; Penny faced charges of criminally negligent homicide
- Protesters gathered outside courthouse, chanting for justice
- Newsome urges black communities to hold events and discuss their needs
BLM Leader’s Controversial Call to Action
Following the acquittal of Daniel Penny in the death of Jordan Neely, Black Lives Matter leader Hawk Newsome made a controversial statement calling for “black vigilantes” to descend on cities. Penny, a former Marine, was found not guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the death of Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, during an incident on a New York City subway train in May 2023.
The case has reignited discussions about race, justice, and self-defense laws. Witnesses described Neely’s behavior as erratic and threatening before Penny placed him in a chokehold. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg initially charged Penny after Neely’s death was ruled a homicide.
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
Reactions and Protests
Protesters supporting Neely gathered outside the courtroom, chanting for justice. The trial involved extensive jury selection, evidence presentation, and deliberations. Some protesters labeled Penny the ‘subway strangler’ and warned of potential unrest without justice.
“Like everybody else has vigilantes, we need some black vigilantes,” Hawk Newsome stated, expressing frustration with the verdict.
Newsome, who claims to be Jordan Neely’s uncle, reportedly threatened Penny in the courtroom following the verdict. He criticized the dismissal of charges, equating it to a victory for white supremacy and “the evil in America.”
Broader Implications
The case has highlighted ongoing tensions between law enforcement, racial justice advocates, and communities. Newsome urged black communities to hold events and discuss their needs instead of just marching, emphasizing self-reliance for black safety.
The acquittal and subsequent reactions have reignited debates about vigilantism, self-defense laws, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the justice system. As communities grapple with these complex issues, the case serves as a flashpoint for broader discussions about race, justice, and community safety in America.
Sources:
BLM Leader Calls for Retaliation After Daniel Penny Acquittal
New York Black Lives Matter leader calls for ‘black vigilantes’ following Daniel Penny verdict
