The Neighborhood Newsroom

  Author: Aly Bates @alytheeactivist                                                                                       Full Image Gallery Here Yesterday afternoon a group of determined community members flooded the streets of downtown Grand Rapids united in the name of justice for Patrick Lyoya. A 26 year old Congolese refugee who lost his life at the hands of former Grand Rapids Police Officer, Christopher Schurr. The march organized by the Comrades Collective began at Fish Ladder Park around 2:30 PM, drawing a crowd of a little over 50 people, including Patrick’s parents and brothers.  Before taking to the streets organizers made sure to hold a moment of silence to honor not only Patrick Lyoya but also Tiffany Parnell, a local activist and revolutionary who t...

  Author: Aly Bates/ Aly Thee Activist Last night, on what marked the two year anniversary of Patrick Lyoya’s tragic murder, a group of around 30 community members gathered in front of the 61st district courthouse for a candlelight vigil to honor a life taken far too soon. On April 4th, 2022 Patrick Lyoya, who was just 26 years old at the time, was fatally shot by former Grand Rapids Police officer Christopher Schurr, sparking outrage from the community and calls for accountability that are echoed to this day. The event was organized by the local organization Comrades Collective , with the location specifically selected as a form of protest against prolonged court proceedings in the case of the State of Michigan Vs Christopher Paul Schurr where the former officer is currently facing a second degree murder charge. Despite the cold and rainy weather conditions making it difficult to keep candles lit, the passion of the attendees burned brighter than any flame. Throughout the vigil t...