Community calls for justice
Contact: Christine Dallas | christinedallas312@gmail.com; Yolanda Barksdale | ybarksdale@breachrepairers.org 704-593-6871
August 22, 2023
Vigil for For Jawan Dallas Draws
100 Attendees in Theodore, Alabama
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Community Calls for Transparency, Justice and Accountability
Around a hundred people assembled on Saturday night at the Exxon Service Station situated at the intersection of Hwy 90 and Bellingrath Rd in Theodore, Alabama. They came together to honor the memory of Jawan Lee Mcgee-Dallas, a 36-year-old Black man whose life was tragically cut short on the night of July 2, 2023, during an encounter with law enforcement. The vigil united family, friends, community leaders, and supporters in a show of solidarity, demanding transparency, justice, and accountability for Jawan Dallas.
The vigil commenced with an opening prayer by Reverend Federick Robinson of Liberty Baptist Church in Mobile, AL. Among the attendees was Robert Clorpton, the President of the NAACP Mobile chapter, who also addressed the gathering. He emphasized the imperative for transparency, justice, and accountability.
This Exxon gas station holds a significant place in Ms. Dallas's heart, being the last location where she saw her son alive during their family meet-up. Additionally, it has served as a community meeting point for others. Ms. Dallas declared her intention to continue organizing monthly gatherings at this Exxon gas station until justice is attained for Jawan Dallas.
Close friends, family members, and those impacted within the community spoke sincerely about Jawan Dallas’ character and his positive influence. They shared stories of his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to aiding others. Jawan was renowned for his selflessness, including feeding community members, arranging Halloween events for children, supplying school backpacks, and distributing Easter baskets. His profound impact on the community is universally acknowledged, with everyone who knew him attesting to his exemplary character.
The vigil served as a reminder of the urgency for transparency and accountability within law enforcement. The gathering united individuals with a shared objective of securing justice for Jawan Dallas, while also underscoring the principle that the role of the police is to Serve and Protect, rather than to execute.
For a recording of the vigil please click here.