Social media reflects on legacy of Erica Garner, daughter of chokehold victim, after news of her death
Supporters and activists are mourning the loss of Erica Garner after news of her death at 27 broke early Saturday.
» RELATED: Erica Garner, daughter of chokehold victim, dies in New York
She passed away this morning. The reports are real. We didn't deserve her.
— officialERICA GARNER (@es_snipes) December 30, 2017
The eldest daughter of Eric Garner, who died in 2014 after a NYPD officer placed him in a chokehold during arrest, suffered a massive heart attack that left her brain dead.
The mother of two suffered her first cardiac arrest in August shortly after the birth of her second child, who she named after her father. She had been in a coma since Dec. 23, when an asthma attack led to a second heart attack.
As details regarding her death, which was confirmed on her Twitter account, hit the internet, many flocked to social media to express their condolences.
Many praised her for her courage and determination in the fight for social justice. Calling her a “champion of change,” they shared kind words and positive thoughts.
Regardless of what yr thoughts may have been over the death of #EricGarner one thing is for sure his daughter #EricaGarner Championed change on behalf of her father May this courageous Woman RIP.. prayers to her Fam & to her very young children #staystrong @ this difficult time
— mimi rutherford (@sacrebleuitsmim) December 30, 2017
Our dear sister Erica Garner has just passed away.
— Shaun King (@ShaunKing) December 30, 2017
When you were her friend, you her friend through all adversity. She was a fierce protector of her friends and family. A truth teller. As genuine and authentic of a soul you’ll ever encounter.
We’re less because of this loss.
My heart is heavy. I hope Erica Garner’s family and friends find comfort in knowing she was a fighter and a passionate soul. Praying for her children.
— Symone D. Sanders (@SymoneDSanders) December 30, 2017
» RELATED: Eric Garner's daughter Erica hospitalized after heart attack
Several also offered prayers to her family, who has experienced two known tragedies within three years.
Erica Garner’s death is a horrible tragedy. I am praying for her family, who have already been through so much. This city will miss her unshakable sense of justice and passion for humanity.
— Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) December 30, 2017
RIP Erica Garner — My prayers are with the family 😪😪 I can’t even fathom what they’re going through right now
— Lequar (@LoveRaqstar) December 30, 2017
Rest in power, Erica Garner. My thoughts & prayers are first & foremost with her family who have endured so much tragedy and injustice already.
— Bree Newsome (@BreeNewsome) December 30, 2017
» RELATED: Who was Erica Garner? 7 things to know about the activist
Celebrities and politicians chimed in, too, reflecting on their favorite memories of the outspoken critic.
RIP to the soldier @es_snipes https://t.co/mkPB0dfbaI
— Talib Kweli Greene (@TalibKweli) December 30, 2017
A broken heart. A big voice. RIP Erica Garner❤️ pic.twitter.com/iAZF5qksVN
— Nia Long (@NiaLong) December 30, 2017
I had the honor of getting to know Erica and I was inspired by the commitment she made working towards a more just world for her children and future generations. She was a fighter for justice and will not be forgotten.
— Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) December 30, 2017
A few said Erica Garner died from a broken heart, comparing the loss to others who have passed while protesting for loved ones that died following police-related incidents.
Erica Garner died from a broken heart
— Plant Based Papi (@X_Confucius) December 30, 2017
It means something that Kalief Browder's mother, Venida Browder passed not long after he did. It means something that Erica Garner has passed after her father died.
— Charlotte Abotsi (@CharlotteAbotsi) December 30, 2017
Rest In Peace to Erica Garner. Rest In Peace to all.
Erica Garner died of a broken heart. Imagine watching the tape that showed your father begging for breath. Imagine fighting for justice that never came. This is too heavy. I’m devastated. Rest in paradise my sister. Your legacy will live forever. 💕💔
— SomethinForThePeople (@blackglamasoror) December 30, 2017
» RELATED: Grand jury will not indict officer who killed Eric Garner
Others spoke about advocating for anti-police brutality and the need for a revamped justic system as a way to continue her legacy.
Police brutality kills families. It distresses entire communities. It has to stop. RIP Erica Garner.
— Akilah Hughes (@AkilahObviously) December 30, 2017
May Erica Garner rest in peace--and may we neither rest nor have peace until we end police brutality . Prayers for her family. @NAACP https://t.co/zvEoUxZie1
— Cornell Wm. Brooks (@CornellWBrooks) December 30, 2017
The Garner family has been through a lot. After witnessing the system fail her father, Erica Garner became an outspoken activist, hoping to make a change. We must continue her fight & end the systematic racism that for years has haunted AA families. My condolences to her family.
— valentin (@vlnto) December 30, 2017
About the Author
Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.
