Thakar Smith, 45, and Oscar Sanchez, 35, were shot and killed by Los Angeles police officers in the first few days of 2023. Anderson's death only intensified the outcry over law enforcement's use of excessive force and brutality against blacks and Latinos.
Dr. Melina Abdullah, who co-founded the Los Angeles chapter of Black Lives Matter with Patrisse Cullors, told BuzzFeed News on Saturday that the news left her deeply shaken.
“When we first heard about Keenan Anderson, we were stunned that there had been a third police killing. [in 2023]and then when Patrisse extended his hand and said, ‘This is my cousin,’ we were completely confused,” Abdullah said. “It made our meeting more personal. It reminded us how often this happens and how close to home it can hit.”
Anderson lived in Washington, D.C., where he taught 10th grade English at Digital Pioneer Academy. According to a statement that academy founder Madea Ashton wrote on the school website, he was visiting his family during winter break at the time of his death.
“Our community is grieving,” Ashton said. “But we are also angry. Angry that a well-known, loved and respected member of our community is no longer with us again. Angry that another talented, beautiful black soul is gone too soon.”
Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement statement on Wednesday, expressing sympathy for the families and raising concerns about the video. “The need for urgent change is clear,” Bass wrote. “We need to reduce the use of force overall, and I have absolutely no tolerance for excessive force.”
Abdullah is calling on Police Chief Michel Moore to resign from his post. “We need to fight for justice for Keenan Anderson,” Abdullah said.
