General President's Statement on the Death of Stephon Clark

On March 18, 2018, Sacramento, California police fatally shot 22-year-old Stephon Clark in the backyard of the home he shared with his grandparents. Mr. Clark is another name added to the long list of unarmed African Americans killed at the hands of those sworn to protect and serve the public.

As we watch the number of murdered African Americans rise, we are also disheartened by the fact that many of these crimes go unprosecuted and unpunished. The men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. have been focused on observing the Urgency of Now. It is now time for targeted and deliberate action to address the issues that are literally killing our communities. It is no longer sufficient to wait for others to advocate on our behalf. We are who we have been waiting for. We must individually and collectively educate ourselves and engage in active resistance to police brutality, negligent enforcement, and judicial apathy.

Following the example of our brothers in Sacramento, California who were present at their city council meeting to not only voice objections to the conditions that led to Stephon Clark’s shooting, but also to register and educate new voters to ensure that their voices will be heard through the ballot box. I urge everyone to actively find ways to pursue strategies that advance our cause for justice which will lead to systemic and lasting change.

Onward and Upward Always,

Everett B. Ward
General President