The soft glow of candlelight lit up Risman Plaza on the evening of Sept. 30 as members of the Kent State community gathered to honor the life of Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Delta State University student whose death has sparked grief, anger and calls for justice nationwide.
Organized by Black United Students, the Sister Circle, the Male Empowerment Network and the Kent State chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Color People, the vigil drew students, faculty and community members in a collective act of remembrance.
Reed’s death was not only a tragedy but also a reminder of the ongoing violence disproportionately affecting Black Americans, said Khori Davis, junior sociology major and president of BUS.
The vigil opened with words from student leaders, who spoke candidly about systemic racism and the persistence of racial violence. Attendees were invited to reflect silently, hold candles in tribute and offer prayers for Reed and his family.
“I hope the vigil brings more awareness to the fact that these tragedies do happen,” said Cheyanne Ball, a sophomore fashion design major and member of BUS. “Their stories should get just as much recognition as the other ones that happen.”
Faith Code, a sophomore nursing major, echoed that urgency.
“What brought me to the vigil tonight is to spread awareness about what’s going on in our communities,” Code said. “People think that [racism] just disappeared, but it’s at an all-time high, especially with what’s going on in politics right now.”
In a joint statement released ahead of the vigil, the organizations urged transparency in the investigation surrounding Reed’s death and highlighted the importance of solidarity during a time of national division.
“Violence against Black bodies has been an ignored reality in this nation for far too long,” the statement read. “Now, more than ever, unity, solidarity and hope are paramount in not only our success, but our very survival.”
Leaders from each organization offered their individual remarks, reflecting on Reed’s life and the broader fight against racism.
Some spoke directly to the pain of losing another young Black life, while others called on their peers for collective action. The speeches varied in tone but carried a unified message: honoring Reed while demanding accountability and change.
Both Ball and Code expressed their condolences to Reed’s family.
“I want to give my thoughts and prayers to the family,” Ball said. “I really hope that they understand that there are a lot of people that’s backing them and supporting them through whatever decision they make with the university and I just hope that they find peace.”
The vigil ended with a reminder of strength found in community.
“We gather here tonight as different races, different ages, different majors,” Davis said. “Look to your left, look to your right. These are the people we need to lean on in times like this.”
Alexis Hood is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].