The calls for change are crossing county lines after the killing of 2LT Richard Collins III.
Collins was killed in Prince Georges County at the University of Maryland, but civil rights groups in Anne Arundel County wanted their leaders to take action.
“There was a strong feeling in the community that there needed to be a statement made,” Carl Snowden, with the Caucus of African American Leaders, said.
Several groups in Anne Arundel county wanted a bold, public statement against hate after Collins had his life snatched away.
“We want to clearly have the resolution denounce white supremacy and denounce white nationalism which is two of the issues that have been surfacing here in Anne Arundel County,” Snowden explained.
Sean Urbanski, the man accused of killing Collins in a possible hate crime, is from Severna Park which is the same district Councilman Michael Peroutka is over.
Peroutka used to belong to a hate group of his own.
“We want to make it clear that Anne Arundel county should not be a haven or refuge for people who hold these racist, bigoted views,” Snowden said.
Peroutka said people have been reaching out for him to condemn Urbanski’s alleged actions.
While Peroutka wants Collins’ killer brought to justice, he said Urbanski should be seen as innocent until proven guilty.
In a statement, Peroutka claimed people are looking to “exploit this tragedy for political gain”and that recent comments and requests are wildly inappropriate and insensitive.
“We are very much aware that the struggle for freedom justice and equality is continuous. This is just one step further toward reaching that goal,” Snowden said.
At least four councilmembers are reportedly introducing a resolution in Collin’s name on Monday at 7:00 p.m. to denounce hate in the county.
Organizers hoped it will pass with or without Peroutka’s vote.
“I don't know. I mean people should have empathy. When you can feel for somebody else, then you can change things,” Yasemin Jamison, with Anne Arundel County Indivisible, said.
