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FinalCall.com News
National News
Activists: A Peacemaker is Killed
By David Muhammad
Updated Dec 13, 2005 - 4:19:00 PM
SAN QUENTIN (FinalCall.com) - “The State of California just killed an innocent man,” three supporters of Stanley “Tookie” Williams, who witnessed his execution, harmonically yelled with their fists in the air as they left San Quentin State Prison’s death chamber. This most unusual rally cry at the end of a state sponsored execution was echoed outside the prison where nearly 3,000 supporters gathered to protest Mr. Williams’ killing.
“Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is a cold blooded murderer,” said Barbara Becnel, Mr. Williams’ long time supporter, spokesman, and co-author, as she emerged from the prison, shortly after he was pronounced dead.
“He went with joy, with pride, with dignity, standing on truth and not bowing down,” said another supporter Rudy Langlais. Also a witness to the execution, Mr. Langlais directed the film “Redemption,” the movie starring Jamie Foxx and which depicted the peacemaker’s life.
Approximately 40 people witnessed the execution, including a phalanx of media, family members of those Mr. Williams was convicted of murdering in 1979, and a third of his supporters to witness his execution, Shirley Neal, a producer at Black Entertainment Television (BET).
Although Mr. Williams initially said he wanted no one to witness his execution, Ms. Becnel convinced him that he should be looking at those who love him when he died.
“This was the worst experience in my life,” she stated, adding, “They murdered Stan.”
Ms. Becnel told The Final Call that she vowed to continue the work of Stanley Tookie Williams, including promoting peace on the streets, educating children, publishing more of his writings, and continuing to prove his innocence.
“I’m a woman on a mission. You will hear much more from me,” Ms. Becnel insisted.
A massive funeral is slated to take place in Los Angeles. Afterward, Ms. Becnel informed, she plans to honor Mr. Williams’ wishes by having his body cremated, then flying to South Africa to spread his ashes there.
