To the Editor:
I was unable to attend last Wednesday’s vigil for Sgt. Kenedy, and would like to add my tribute by means of this letter.
On Friday, March 21, a group of concerned people began holding signs on the corner of 101 and Broadway to call for resistance to the attack on essential government services and the descent toward authoritarian rule coming from the current administration.
At 4 p.m. that afternoon, I pulled my car over at the corner and began to unload signs. A King City police car stopped in the opposite traffic lane on San Antonio Drive. A very polite and concerned officer told me I was parked unsafely, and suggested I back into the fenced area by the abandoned motel immediately. His calm voice was filled, not with judgment, but deep concern.
I immediately did as he suggested and then asked if he knew we would be protesting there soon. He said no and I invited him to return to protect those planning to assemble. He complimented me on our doing so peacefully and said he would return. I felt grateful for being seen, acknowledged and protected.
I was certain the officer was Sgt. Kenedy when I learned he died suddenly the following week.
This incident feels like one of Sgt. Kenedy’s parting gifts to those he served. I am honored to have been its witness, and wish to pass on his blessing of respect for each individual he was called to care for.
Susan Raycraft
Lockwood
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