DECATUR, Ala. — On the night of September 29, 2023, Decatur resident Steve Perkins was shot and killed by then-police officer Mac Marquette. The incident, which took place in the midst of a towing dispute taking place outside Perkins' residence, marked a turning point in relations between the city's residents, its leaders, and the police department as a whole.
Sunday marks one year since Perkins' death: a somber anniversary marked with pauses for reflection and an examination of progress that has, or has not, been made.
While Marquette awaits trial for murder, civil rights activists have demanded changes within the police department, as well as the city council. They have repeatedly called for the resignation of Mayor Tab Bowling - who is set to retire next year, and who has said he has no plans to vacate office before his term is up.
Groups have also asked for the termination of Police Chief Todd Pinion and the three other officers who responded with Marquette to the call at the Perkins residence that night. Marquette and the responding officers were fired, however their hearing to appeal that decision remains pending.
Meanwhile, a third-party review committee has been hired to examine the culture and policies within the Decatur Police Department. With funding approved by the council, the committee is expected to offer recommendations for changes that can help heal community bonds.
A federal suit filed by Catrela Perkins, Steve's widow, against the City was dismissed earlier this year.
While supporters of Perkins' family and the overall cause of justice in the wake of the shooting say little progress has been made, the anniversary date is also cause to celebrate Steve for the person he was and the legacy he left behind.
Saturday, community members gathered at the Cotton Gin to honor Steve's memory with food trucks, music, and dancing. Those who attended, like Morgan County NAACP President Rodney Gordon, said they don't want to see the momentum of the movement to die out any time soon.
"It's just been a year, and most of the time, things die out," Gordon said. "You know, the people get away with it. Well, not this time. We got some soldiers."
"I think that the proudest thing I can say is the consistency of the community," observed Standing in Power's Terrance Adkins. "Making sure that they come out and be a part of this is something that they've done since day one."
A remembrance service for Steve Perkins will be held Sunday at Westside Missionary Baptist Church. The program is scheduled to start at 3 p.m.