DECATUR, Ala (WHNT) — Monday, Sept. 29 marks exactly two years since Stephen Perkins was shot and killed by a Decatur police officer.
Family, friends, and community members gathered on Saturday to honor his life, in what they called the second annual “Justice for Steve Perkins Fall Kick-Off.”
Since Perkins’ death in September 2023, there’s been a divide in the city of Decatur. However, Steve’s widow Catrela Perkins explained that the day wasn’t about division or blame. It was about joining together.
“All races, all color, just to enjoy a day and love on each other because that’s what Steve was about,” Perkins said.
Members of the Steve Perkins Foundation were there with family and friends to support the cookout in his honor.
“We just want to put together an event once a year that could bring everyone together,” said Perkins.
She explained that much of the music, food, games, and karaoke was made possible by the generosity of people in North Alabama.
“I had a lot of people donate for this…. a lot of people wanted to volunteer to cook and help serve the food,” Perkins said.
Terrance Adkins is the council member elect for District 1 in Decatur. He was one of many people who attended the cookout.
Adkins said they are continuing to find ways to be positive in the midst of tragedy.
“It’s been a hard two years, but we have gained a lot from this loss,” Atkins said. “I think the community has become more aware of things of that nature.”
Despite the time that has passed, Catrela said it’s still hard, but events like these keep their spirits high and their minds calm.
“It puts my mind at ease a little bit,” she said.
While they wait for closure, they remain grateful for the community’s continued support.
“Since his tragic death, I’ve met so many people in the community that I did not know before this,” Perkins said. “They have been so supportive and they are still with us two years later.”
The event was sponsored by the Steve Perkins Foundation, which you can donate to on their website. The foundation said this is an annual event that they hope to continue in the future.
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