The brutal killing of Rasheem Carter, a 25-year-old Black man, has sparked anger and grief in Taylorsville, a small Mississippi town with a history of racial tension and violence. Carter, who had been working at a local lumber company for several months, had become increasingly concerned about the racist behavior of his white supervisor, who allegedly made derogatory comments about Black people and subjected Carter to unfair treatment. Carter also reported being followed by three white trucks with unknown occupants, which he suspected were related to the harassment and intimidation he had experienced.
On October 2, 2022, Carter went missing, leaving behind his phone, car, and apartment. His family and friends grew increasingly worried as days went by without any sign of him, and they searched the area and posted flyers with his picture and description. However, their efforts were hampered by a lack of resources and support from the authorities, who they felt were not taking Carter’s case seriously due to his race and socioeconomic status.
Less than a month later, on November 4, Carter’s dismembered remains were found in a field outside of town, shocking the community and sending a wave of fear and anger among Black residents who felt they were not safe in Taylorsville. The police launched an investigation into Carter’s death but have not yet made any arrests or named any suspects, which has added to the frustration and distrust of the authorities. Some people have speculated that Carter’s murder was a hate crime fueled by racism and bigotry, while others have suggested that it could be related to his work or personal life.
Carter’s family and supporters have been calling for justice and accountability, organizing protests and vigils, and demanding that the police and the media pay more attention to his case. They have also raised concerns about the broader context of racism and violence in Taylorsville and beyond, pointing to the legacy of slavery, segregation, and discrimination that has shaped the region’s history and culture. They argue that Carter’s story is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a more significant problem that needs to be addressed.
The lumber company where Carter worked denied wrongdoing and expressed condolences to his family. Still, some former employees have spoken out about the toxic work environment and the pervasive racism they experienced there. They have described incidents where Black workers were mistreated, insulted, and threatened by their white colleagues and where management ignored or dismissed complaints. They have also shared their fears and anxieties about speaking up or standing up for their rights, given the risks of retaliation and ostracism.
As the investigation into Carter’s death continues, the town of Taylorsville remains tense and divided, with some people calling for unity and healing while others demand justice and change. The story of Rasheem Carter is a tragic reminder that Black men, women, and children aren’t safe in Mississippi and this racist ass country, for that matter.
Unity and healing comes after justice and change.