An HBCU pupil and band member is on the heart of a rising nationwide dialog after the discharge of physique digital camera footage from a February site visitors cease in Jacksonville, Florida. William McNeil Jr., a biology main at Livingstone Faculty, was reportedly assaulted by officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Workplace throughout a cease on February 19. His case has sparked outrage throughout the HBCU neighborhood and past.
Prosecutors have declined to file expenses towards the officers, in keeping with the Washington Put up.
“That day, I simply actually wished to know why I used to be getting pulled over, and why I wanted to step out of the automotive,” McNeil instructed reporters in regards to the incident, which gained traction on-line in current days after he shared video from inside his car. “I do know I didn’t do nothing flawed. I used to be actually simply scared, and that’s it,” he added.
McNeil’s cellphone footage, which exhibits solely a partial view of the interplay, went viral and led to public strain on native officers. In response, Jacksonville Sheriff T.Okay. Waters launched the division’s bodycam video, claiming McNeil’s clip didn’t present the total image.
Livingstone Faculty President Dr. Anthony J. Davis issued a strong assertion in help of McNeil, calling for justice and highlighting the scholar’s contributions to the HBCU and local people.
“Will’s rights had been violated however he confirmed restraint, he confirmed resolve, and he confirmed resilience. That’s the Blue Bear Approach,” Davis stated within the letter. “We’ll cease at nothing to make sure that SAU maintains its accreditation and continues serving our college students,” he added, whereas referencing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s quote: “Injustice wherever is a risk to justice all over the place.”
The Jacksonville, Fl resident is a member of the Blue Thunder Marching Band and is thought across the HBCU campus for his service and generosity. He repeatedly volunteers to assist fellow college students, together with making minor automotive repairs and dealing with the college’s upkeep workforce to enhance air high quality in residence halls.
The case has united leaders, alumni, and college students who see McNeil not solely as a sufferer, but additionally as an emblem of the continued wrestle for civil rights and truthful remedy. The discharge of the video has made him a rallying level within the broader struggle towards police brutality throughout the nation’s HBCUs.
