On Sunday, two vigils were held to celebrate the life of Elijah L. Lewis. The first was at Black Dot Seattle, where Community members gathered to remember the activist, entrepreneur and community leader whose life was tragically cut short on Saturday afternoon at just 23 years old. This was a closed door vigil and planning session, and Lewis’s Mother and Brother were present to speak with the community and honor Lewis’s legacy. Lewis was a frequent presence in the space, hosting community events and contributing his voice to various efforts with Africatown Community Land Trust, the Sankofa Theater, and more while working with Black Dot as a community builder.

The second was at the corner of Broadway and E Pine St, where Community members gathered to remember the activist, entrepreneur and community leader. Family members, friends, colleagues and community members marked the spot where Lewis was tragically murdered with speeches, signs, flowers and more, celebrating Lewis’s legacy while pushing for community safety and sharing in the heaviness of the moment. 

Community members held the street for two hours as they honored Lewis’s life and legacy. 

Photos by Seattle photographer Jordan Somers on behalf of Converge Media.