Sometimes People Just Get Beaten to Death
The Unbroken Line from Police Brutality to Michael Stewart’s Tragic Fate
In 1983, a group of art students witnessed a horrific scene: Transit Police brutally beating Michael Stewart, a 25-year-old African American man, into a coma. This event had a direct and terrifying connection to the current political landscape of New York City, intersecting with the lives of Madonna, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Spike Lee, and Tucker Carlson.
The Unaccountable Crime
Journalist Elon Green, author of The Man Nobody Killed: Life, Death, and Art in Michael Stewart’s New York, delves into the tragic story of Michael Stewart, whose brutal beating by police led to his eventual death. Despite the shocking nature of the incident, no one was ever held responsible, and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) maintained that the police officers involved did nothing wrong.
The Connection to Eric Adams and Beyond
The podcast THE CITY’s Rachel Holiday Smith and Harry Siegel recently spoke with Elon Green to discuss the event and its significance. The conversation revealed a chilling connection between the 1983 beating and the election of Eric Adams, the current mayor of New York City, who has been criticized for his handling of police brutality allegations. This disturbing link is just one example of how the issue of police brutality has continued to plague the city, leaving many to wonder if anything has changed in the past 40 years.
The Legacy of Michael Stewart’s Tragic Fate
Michael Stewart’s story serves as a painful reminder of the long history of police brutality in New York City. His case is a stark example of the devastating consequences that can result from unchecked police violence. The lack of accountability and the dismissive attitude of then-Mayor Ed Koch towards police brutality perpetuate a culture of impunity, leaving many to question whether justice can ever be served.
Conclusion
The story of Michael Stewart’s tragic fate is a sobering reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in New York City. As we continue to grapple with the issue of police brutality, it is essential to remember the victims and their families, like Michael Stewart, who were left behind. By shedding light on the dark history of police brutality, we can work towards a brighter future where justice is served and all New Yorkers can feel safe and protected by their law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the nature of Michael Stewart’s interaction with the police?
Michael Stewart was beaten into a coma by Transit Police in 1983. - Was anyone held responsible for Michael Stewart’s death?
No, despite the severity of the crime, no one was held responsible for Michael Stewart’s death. - How does Michael Stewart’s story connect to Eric Adams and the current police brutality issue?
The story of Michael Stewart’s tragic fate is connected to Eric Adams’ handling of police brutality allegations and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in New York City.
