Organizers called on the Alcorn State University (ASU) community to wear black and gather for an awareness and justice rally on Tuesday, October 28th, in support of Nolan Wells and his family as they seek answers, accountability and truth.
Nolan Wells was an 18-year-old African American college student from Ocean Springs, Mississippi who went on a boat trip to Horn Island, a barrier island off the coast of Mississippi, with his Caucasian friends and died under mysterious circumstances.
The event, titled “Blackout for Justice: Standing with Nolan Wells,” began at 5:30 pm at the Campus Plaza. Presented by the SGA Business Manager, Brionna Evans and Mister Senior, Jeremiah Harris, the effort paired an all-day campus blackout with a rally where participants were encouraged to bring posters.
“Justice begins with awareness and change begins when we refuse to remain silent,” was what the event announcement stated.
For Evans, who is Wells’ cousin, the call for solidarity carries a deeply personal meaning. “This rally means so much to me because Nolan isn’t just another name or another story in the news. He’s my cousin, he’s my family, and he’s someone I love,” she stated.
“You see situations like this happening to other families all the time, but you never imagine that one day it’ll be your own family searching for answers.”
Organizers described the event as more than an invitation to wear black. This rally emphasized standing together, raising awareness and reminding those seeking justice that they do not stand alone. The invitation extended to the entire Alcorn community.
“This rally is important because it shows that we’re not alone in our fight for justice and that our community refuses to remain silent,” Evans said. “We’re still seeking answers, accountability, and the truth that our family deserves. We will continue making our voices heard for Nolan until justice is served.”
(Photo Credit: Jayden Jones)
