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The John M. Langston Bar Association mourns the tragic deaths of Eric Washington and Meah Bordenave-Jenkins, whose lives were taken in a senseless act of violence in Compton over the Fourth of July weekend.
Eric was a respected community advocate whose life was defined by service. Reports that he lost his life while attempting to de-escalate a conflict speak volumes about his character.
On a personal note, Eric was my fraternity brother in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and a member of Iota Zeta Lambda, the Compton Alpha chapter. Raised in the Compton area, he earned degrees from the University of North Texas and Grambling State University, where he became an Alpha. He returned home to serve his community as a field deputy to Assemblymember Mike Gipson and later with the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, while remaining a tireless advocate for public safety and the people of Compton.
For those who ask what Black Greek-letter organizations contribute to our communities, Eric’s life is a powerful answer. Founded on the ideals of scholarship, leadership, and service, our Black fraternities and sororities strive to uplift our communities. Brother Washington did not simply wear the letters of Alpha Phi Alpha, he lived them, embodying our motto: “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.”
Meah Bordenave-Jenkins was a young nursing student at UNLV whose promising future was cut tragically short by gunfire. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones, whose loss is immeasurable.
Langston, as an association dedicated to equal justice under law and community advancement, reaffirms its commitment to serving our communities, promoting the peaceful resolution of conflict, and honoring the dignity and value of every human life.
May Eric and Meah be remembered not for the violence that claimed their lives, but for the lives they lived and the hope they inspired. May they rest in peace, and may both families find strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead.
Ludlow B. Creary II, Esq.
President
The John M. Langston Bar Association
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