Five men against one. This is the struggle that Vauhxx Booker experienced on July 4, 2020, as five men pinned him down against a tree and threatened to lynch him. We can find a morsel of solace in the fact that we can recount these events, and refer to Vauhxx Booker without preceding his name with “the death of” or “the murder of”. But the truth is, this incident highlights a horrifying reality in America that is often denied or explained away: the persistence of racism and hate in our country.
For those who enjoy the benefits of the status quo hate-fueled instances such as this are akin to tall tales or exaggerations. In fact, the attorney for the assailants, David Hennesy has already accused Mr. Booker of being the instigator despite there being multiple witnesses. This tactic of demonizing Black and Brown bodies is often implemented to thwart attempts for justice. To date, no arrests have been made.
The FBI has initiated an investigation. State officials have openly condemned the violence and fear Mr. Booker had to endure. John Hamilton, the Bloomington Mayor expressed his outrage. State Sen. Mark Stoops, called on Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb to suspend and investigate the Department of Natural Resource officers who responded to the scene and did not make arrests. The citizens of Bloomington have protested demanding the arrests of the assailants. Yet, no arrests have been made.
We believe the inaction of the state further emboldens those harboring hate and fueled by racism. Due to the increasing racial tension in America, it is necessary that a clear line is drawn as to what our communities and country stand for and will tolerate. Racism and hate should not be on that list. The failure to make any arrests does not send that message. Rather, it provides comfort and peace of mind to those with similar intentions. The recent outcry for justice and equality by the black community has been heard around the world but seems to fall on deaf ears here in our home.
Not only does the National Bar Association Young Lawyers Division condemn the violence against Vauhxx Booker, but it also condemns the failure to act by the state.
