Dolores Cox

Dolores Cox WW photo: Monica Moorehead

“I was shocked when they announced the verdict on the Sean Bell case. I saw the sadness and disbelief of the people coming out of the courthouse and realized I was crying.

“I had hoped that maybe this once the system would do the right thing and truth and justice would prevail. But the historical violence and terrorism of the past against Black men and boys was still reigning supreme.

“It wasn’t until I was actually there at One Police Plaza that I suddenly understood more clearly that to make change happen there has to be sacrifice, commitment and courage. And that each one of us has to do our part in whatever way we can. As frightening as going to jail was, it was also one of the proudest and most rewarding things I’ve done in my life.”