In June of 2022, the Akron community called for justice after 25-year-old Jayland Walker was shot 46 times and killed by eight Akron City Police officers. Today, a special grand jury of the State of Ohio has decided not to charge the police officers involved in the shooting, reinforcing the injustice that black communities continue to face locally, state-wide, and nationally.

We recognize the pain and trauma that this decision has caused the Walker family and our Akron community. It is unacceptable that black and other marginalized communities continue to be disproportionately affected by police violence, and we must work together to advocate for systemic change.

The International Institute of Akron continues to stand with the Walker family to honor Jayland’s life, to advocate for racial justice, and bring an end to police violence.

Sincerely,

Madhu Sharma

IIA Executive Director