By Reverend Sharon Baugh, Pastor
As the pastor of Hope Chapel AME Zion Church, the oldest African American church in the Mohawk Valley, founded by slaves and the children of slaves, I am deeply pained to witness the footage of a horrific beating that led to the death of Robert Brooks at the hands of those who are meant to serve and protect. The ground itself seems to cry out in anguish at this atrocity, and the weight of history echoes through our veins.
The casual disregard for the humanity of Robert Brooks, despite the perpetrators’ knowledge of being under surveillance, suggests that this violence may be systemic and has likely occurred before, leaving countless victims suffering in silence with no accountability. Such callous behavior demands a thorough and transparent investigation into the practices and treatment of inmates at this facility, reaching beyond the scope of this single incident.
While New York State does not have the death penalty, Robert Brooks was subjected to cruel and unusual punishment that ultimately ended his life. It is crucial that we, as a community, stand together to demand justice and ensure that no one else suffers such a tragic fate.
May we honor the memory of Robert Brooks by tirelessly pursuing truth, justice, and reform within our correctional institutions.
In solemn unity,
Reverend Sharon Baugh, Pastor
Hope Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, Utica, New York
