By Andrew Sheeler, SACRAMENTO BEE

February 15, 2021

https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article249217015.html#storylink=cpy

MARCH FOR RACIAL JUSTICE AND MALPRACTICE REFORM

Protesters on Saturday held a march in Manteca in memory of Shawn Washington III, who died of an undiagnosed lung hemorrhage after seeking treatment at three different medical centers. Organizers, which include Black Lives Matter Manteca and other Central Valley racial justice groups, allege that it was medical negligence that killed Washington. 

Protesters marched to each of the three medical facilities Washington visited before his death. They also heard from speakers including Washington’s sister, Sharon Washington-Barnes, medical advocate Susan Sellers and Kyle Seever, whose brother, Trevor Seever, was shot and killed by Modesto police late last year. 

“This otherwise healthy 29-year-old black male was a son, grandson, and expectant father who died a sudden but preventable death and there needs to be accountability and change,” Washington-Barnes said in a statement released by the organizers.“This march is to showcase that we will not rest until there is acknowledgment of the neglect that Shawn faced at three Manteca medical facilities. We want people to know that we are still here, fighting for justice, fighting for change, fighting for a better future in Shawn’s name and legacy.”

Organizers also voiced their support for a proposed 2022 ballot initiative that would raise the state’s malpractice cap.