Arbery's Mom Honors His Legacy Before Sixth Anniversary

SAVANNAH, Ga. — Almost six years after Ahmaud Arbery was fatally shot while jogging, his mother is recalling cherished moments of her son.

She is also considering the assistance she got after his passing — such as from the late civil rights activist Jesse Jackson.

Wanda Cooper-Jones characterized her son as an individual who had a passion for exercise and running.

"Ahmaud was into fitness... a passionate runner who ran nearly every day," Cooper-Jones stated.

On February 23, 2020, Arbery, who was 25 years old, was fatally shot while jogging in a area close to Brunswick, Georgia. Three white individuals — consisting of a father and his son — were found guilty of Arbery's murder, with prosecutors characterizing the act as a racially driven hate crime. Each of the three is currently incarcerated.

Cooper-Jones mentioned that Jackson was among the first well-known figures to reach out to her following her son's passing. He subsequently attended court to stand by the family's side. Jackson passed away earlier this week.

When questioned about what she thinks her son experienced in his last moments, Cooper-Jones responded: "I think about it constantly. And Ahmaud was frightened."

Cooper-Jones mentioned that she has found solace in connecting with other mothers who have gone through comparable tragedies. She noted that she was invited by Trayvon Martin's mother, Sabrina Fulton, to participate in a yearly event.

"I was invited by Trayvon Martin's mother, Sabrina Fulton. She organizes an annual event for mothers known as the Circle of Moms. When I arrived, it was a room filled with love and support," Cooper-Jones stated.

On Monday — commemorating the sixth anniversary of Arbery's passing — Cooper-Jones is encouraging the community to join the Fifth Annual Ahmaud Arbery Memorial Run in Brunswick. She expressed her hope for ongoing support, solidarity, and a large attendance.

"Knowing that they are still pursuing Ahmaud makes a big difference to me, and it's important to see that they're still united and standing firm for justice," Cooper-Jones said.

Ahmaud Arbery is laid to rest at New Springfield Baptist Church near Waynesboro.