MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A candlelight vigil and march is scheduled to be held in remembrance of Tyre Nichols on the second anniversary of his beating death.
National civil rights Attorney Ben Crump, the family of Tyre Nichols, and the Memphis community will come together on January 7 to commemorate the life of Nichols, who was beaten by Memphis Police officers and died a few days later.
A march will begin at 4 p.m. at Ross and Raines and proceed to 6727 Castlegate Lane. A candlelight vigil will then be held at the site where Nichols was beaten. Participants are encouraged to bring candles.
“The event will reflect on the profound loss experienced by Mr.Nichols’ family and the Memphis
community while envisioning a path toward justice, accountability, and rebuilding trust between
law enforcement and the citizens they serve as we grapple with the findings of the Department
of Justice’s Pattern or Practice investigation,” said a press release.
After an investigation into the MPD, the DOJ announced last month that they found officers often violate the U.S. Constitution and federal law. They said the MPD uses excessive force, conducts unlawful stops, searches, and arrests, and unlawfully discriminates against Black people when enforcing the law.
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“The past two years have been a journey of pain, resilience, and advocacy,” said RowVaughn
Wells, “This event is not only about remembering my son Tyre’s life but also about creating
space for conversations on reform and healing that our community urgently needs.”
According to a press release, local leaders, clergy, and community members are expected to speak at the vigil.
“This year’s anniversary event seeks to continue turning grief into action by
advocating for the policies we passed last to be followed so that the community can start to
rebuild trust with police,” said the media release.