Memorial Organized for Mario Gonzalez, Killed by Police in Alameda, California

Report on community memorial marking the one year anniversary of the police murder of Mario Gonzalez, in the bay area of California.

On April 19th, 2022, a memorial was held for the one year anniversary of the tragic murder of Mario Gonzalez by Alameda Police. Coming just a week after the DA decided not to hold any of the officers involved responsible with criminal charges, community gathered along with musicians, danzantes, and organizers, to hold up the devastated family in this continued time of loss and pain with prayer, culture, and love. Among those that contributed to the memorial were #transformalameda, #antipoliceterrorproject, #curyj510, #67suenos, #adante_pointer_esq, and #hastamuertecoffee

 

The extra-legal activity shown in this video was in no way connected to or coordinated with the planners of the memorial event. It was carried out by this author, who knew Mario personally and believes that it is our duty— that of Mario’s loved ones who are able, and that of anyone who cares enough to take impactful concrete action— to bring distress and agony to those responsible for Mario’s untimely death.

Police, and people that call 911 in non-threatening situations on the basis of their own unchecked prejudices, are time and again allowed to maintain a culture of dominance. They are only inhibited by knowledge that their actions may have unwanted consequences. For this reason, we took these actions— in hopes that they, and others like them, will have to think twice next time and assess whether the situation warrants a death sentence.

Mario had a warm energy and an even temperament, and had suffered the loss of his own brother in recent years. He is dearly missed.

Rest In Power Mario