By Sharon N Simon
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Khalid Shabazz is demanding answers following the death of his son, Rashawn, after an encounter with police, in their custody.
The father said his fight is now about justice, accountability and better care for people with mental health conditions.
Shabazz remembers his son as a loving, kind and helpful young man, who had a special love for children and who often helped people in his community. He added that he wants people to remember that side of his son.
But his grief also brought attention to wider concerns. He said he believes too many families in Antigua and Barbuda are waiting for answers about loved ones. Some relatives have died; others remain missing.
Shabazz asserted that families deserve clear information and proper updates from the authorities, and he is also raising concerns about mental health care.
Shabazz explained that his son had a mental health condition and sometimes failed to take his medication, which led to repeated episodes that needed professional care and management.
According to Shabazz, magistrates had previously worked to secure reports and court orders for his son’s treatment. He said that late Magistrate Conliffe Clarke had issued an order for Rashawn to be housed at Clare Vue Psychiatric Hospital. However, Shabazz said his son was eventually released because of concerns about space and long-term housing.
Now Shabazz wants changes to protect people with mental health conditions, adding that the country needs proper facilities, trained professionals and caring staff. He believes authorities must move beyond temporary promises and deal with the problem at its core.
That call for accountability has now moved from words to public action.
More than 50 people participated in a ‘Justice for Rashawn’ protest yesterday. Organizers said that a handful of others arrived after the demonstration ended, asking how they could get involved, and whether another protest would be held soon.
The family is currently waiting for official answers about Rashawn’s death. While an inquest has started and an autopsy was expected to follow, Shabazz has also called for an independent investigation.
Shabazz said that his son died in state custody and believes the family deserves a fair and transparent process. This fight, he added, is about more than one family; it is about every family still waiting for answers.
Shabazz insisted that public officials have a duty to carry out the responsibilities entrusted to them, and believes that accountability must follow when that duty is not met.
As the investigation continues, the bereaved father remains focused on getting answers, justice for his son, seeing accountability effected and changes that could protect other families from facing the same pain.
Khalid Shabazz Seeks Answers, Takes Fight to the Streets
