Eight years after Wanda Johnson celebrated her New Years birthday and was tragically informed that her son, Oscar Grant, was the victim of a fatal police shooting, the Oakland community continues an annual celebration of Oscar’s life. On January 1, 2017, local performers including Sol Development, Young Gifted and Black, Kev Choice, Gina Madrid and more took stage to share music and poetry with the hundred plus person crowd at Fruitvale BART Station. In 2009, Oscar Grant’s killing marked the inauguration of an era scathed by viral camera phone videos depicting police brutality in communities of color. Gwen Woods, the mother of SFPD shooting victim Mario Woods, joined the Johnson family in support. Also in attendance was Civil Rights Lawyer John Burris, Oakland City Councilwoman Lynette Gibson McElhaney, and newly elected BART Board Member Lateefah Simon. The vigil brought together the Oakland community in a celebration of life, culture, and unity. The video, produced by Kristina Williams, shows highlights from the day.
Youth hold protest signs at the 8th annual vigil for Oscar Grant in front of Fruitvale BART Station on January 1, 2017 in Oakland, CA.