Democratic Representatives Justin Jones from Nashville and G.A. Hardaway from Memphis are urging Tennessee authorities to take more decisive action against the escalating neo-Nazi activity in Nashville. Their call for stronger action comes after a group of white supremacists harassed five young boys who were performing on the streets of downtown Nashville over the weekend.
During a news conference held on Wednesday at the Cordell Hull legislative office building, Jones expressed his dismay over the verbal attacks and intimidation that were directed towards a group of young, talented Black boys who were simply trying to enjoy their summer break by playing the drums. He referred to the boys as brilliant, beautiful, and powerful, emphasizing that they did not deserve to be subjected to such treatment by white nationalists.
According to Jones, the recent incident was an act of intimidation that has set us back to the darker days of our history.
Downtown regulars may recognize the Wilson brothers, Rontarious (14) and Detonio (10), along with their friends Kamond Williams (11) and Jaquial Forrest (9), as they often showcase their impressive drumming skills on overturned plastic buckets. Their intricate beats have captured the attention of many passersby.
Jones and the mother of one of the boys reported that Metro Nashville Police had escorted the children only one block from the scene and left them to walk home unaccompanied.
Jones emphasized that the current issue goes beyond surface-level incidents and delves into a more profound systemic problem. The rising threat of white nationalist terror in the state and city is now targeting even the youngest members of society. “We are aware that this poses a significant danger, and it is crucial that we address it immediately,” Jones stated.
The Metro Council’s Minority Caucus swiftly responded to the incident and issued a strong rebuke through an online statement.
In a recent statement, it was emphasized that while free speech is a fundamental right, it should never be used as a tool for grown men to propagate hateful and racist language towards children. The statement went on to strongly condemn any form of speech that promotes division, intolerance, or incites hatred.
During the news conference held on Wednesday, Ashton Lee, who is the mother of Forrest and a close friend of the other three boys’ mother, addressed the attendees.
With tears in her eyes, she expressed her discontent, “It just wasn’t right,” she said. “I came to this supposed free city, and yet it still happened.”
Initially, Lee was unaware that her son and his friends were the target of the harassment until she stumbled upon the viral video of the incident on social media.
She expressed that the situation deeply saddened her.
Lee stated that the boys, who earn money through busking to purchase typical pre-teen items like shoes and stylish clothing, have been too shy to go out and play since the incident.
“She tells the boys that not all white people are the same,” she expressed. “It evokes a certain feeling in me, but she reminds them that not everyone is against them, despite what they may feel.”
“It’s hurtful that no other Tennessee lawmakers have reached out to me,” she expressed.
She made a heartfelt appeal, “Your actions are causing harm and pain. I implore you to demonstrate your concern for the children and find ways to support them.”
Jones and Hardaway urged the legislative body to take immediate action and provide solutions to the issue at hand. They emphasized the need for reflection and correction to address the problem effectively and demanded clear answers from the authorities.
Hardaway expressed her disgust and outrage towards the video of the incident, stating that she found it to be deplorable. She emphasized that in today’s Nashville, Tennessee, it is unacceptable for grown men to bully and intimidate young children.
The altercation didn’t come as a surprise to him, and he raised questions about the sense of security that the neo-Nazis feel while marching publicly in Tennessee.
In a call for a more civil discourse, the speaker emphasized the need to reduce the level of hatred and negativity prevalent in the political arena. He urged individuals to refrain from using vitriolic language and to instead focus on creating a more respectful and tolerant environment. Addressing those who promote white supremacy, he made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated and would be publicly called out.
Before embarking on a tour of the Capitol, the children treated the gathered media to an impressive drum solo.
Detonio took a bold move as he stood at the dais that is usually occupied by House Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville. Despite his small stature, he slammed the ceremonial gavel and made a plea for freedom. With determination in his voice, he urged the police to let them be free and requested the white people to stop being racist towards the Black people’s children.
After the incident, Jones initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support the children. The main objective of the campaign is to raise funds for the family to purchase school supplies, school clothing, groceries, and even a drum set for the kids.
At the time of writing, the fundraiser has exceeded its goal of $8,000 and has raised over $10,000.
Our coverage of First Amendment issues at the USA Today Network – Tennessee is made possible through a partnership between Journalism Funding Partners and the Freedom Forum.
