SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE STUDENT REMEMBERED

by Janice Jordan Sunday, Oct. 28, 2001 at 12:17 AM
jjordan@janicejordan.org

An October 25th, 2001 Rally and Demonstration in National City organized by the American Friends Service Committee, Raza Rights Coalition and San Diego State University MeChA questioned the latest police shooting and death of 19 year old Southwestern College Student Emmanuel Sotelo.

Up to 150 people gathered in front of the National City Police Station to speak out against the most recent police shooting that resulted in the death of a 19 year old college student. Southwestern College Student Emmanuel Sotelo was shot and killed by National City Police on October 5th, 2001 while hanging out with friends. Mr. Sotelo was on a public sidewalk talking with at least two friends when police were called. Initial police reports indicate officers were engaging all the young men in conversation when Mr. Sotelo began to ran. A police officer gave chase and Mr. Sotelo was shot in the back, the wound would kill him a few days later.

Organizers of the October 25th event, the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), San Diego State University MeChA and Raza Rights Coalition were joined by friends of Mr. Sotelo and community activists. All speakers questioned the brutal and deadly tactics of the National City and San Diego Police Departments and other law enforcement agencies in San Diego County, including the Border Patrol. Demands for an investigation into Mr. Sotelo's death and community policing (an officer works where he lives) were

just a few topics discussed by speakers and supporters in the crowd.

The demonstrators then walked to the area where Mr. Sotelo was shot, with honks of support from passing motorists along the way. A moment of silence was requested by organizers in remembrance of Emmanuel Sotelo that then brought speakers to closing comments. Voices of solidarity among the crowd demanded justice for Emmanuel Sotelo and for a continued struggle against police brutality.

Original: SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE STUDENT REMEMBERED