Memorial weekend for Tampa teen Andrew Joseph III wraps on Sunday

The family is hosting qualified immunity workshops, a play preview, and more.

By Ray Roa on Wed, Feb 7, 2024 at 11:19 am

Photo by Justin Garcia

Deanna and Andrew Joseph Jr. stand outside of Tampa's federal courthouse.

Andrew Joseph III would have been 24 this year. To celebrate their son’s life, Deanna and Andrew Joseph Jr. (pictured above), together with the community, stage a week of Tampa-based memorial activities.

There was yesterday’s workshop on how to end qualified immunity and today’s vigil. Plus, check out Friday’s preview of “Power & Purpose: The Andrew Joseph III Story,” a play about the life and legacy of the boy who died on I-4 after deputies that ejected him from the state fair.

A freedom boat ride happens on Saturday, and the week wraps with a Sunday service for victims of families impacted by police violence.

When people are shot by police, this Tampa couple helps families heal and organize: After winning their case against Hillsborough Sheriff, the Josephs give others a blueprint for fighting police brutality

“We ask any individual who wants to learn Andrew’s story, the impacts of police violence, and how to fight to end qualified immunity for the police to come out to any events that you can during the memorial week. It is a great opportunity to learn more about your community,” a press release says.

See descriptions of the event, from organizers, below. More information on the Andrew Joseph III 10 Year Memorial Week (Standing in Power) happening daily through Sunday, Feb. 11 is available via lnk.bio/ajfweek.

Wednesday Feb. 7
We Remember Andrew Joseph III: Ten Year Candlelight Vigil Exactly 10 years after Andrew’s passing, his family will speak and reflect on the impact Andrew and his legacy had on them. While it will be a mourning of his death it will also be a celebration of the community that has been brought together in response.

Friday, Feb. 9
Andrew Joseph Memorial Weekend Welcome Reception and Power & Purpose: The Andrew Joseph III Story First at Whiskey & Rhythm will be a welcome reception marking the beginning of the weekend’s event. What follows will be an exclusive sneak peak for Power & Purpose: The Andrew Joseph III Story, a play about the life and legacy of Andrew Joseph III.

Saturday Feb. 10
Freedom Boat Ride and Andrew Joseph III 10 Year Memorial Dinner In the afternoon, a beautiful boat ride honoring Andrew Joseph III, in which we will spend time reflecting on the work of impacted families while also enjoying the beauty that surrounds us. Then in the evening comes the memorial dinner which includes poetry, singers, dancers, a silent auction and more while we bring the community together for a celebration of life.

Sunday, Feb. 11
Sunday Service At the Center for Manifestation join us for a special prayer service and goodbyes to visiting impacted families.

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About The Author

Ray Roa

Read his 2016 intro letter and disclosures from 2022 and 2021. Ray Roa started freelancing for Creative Loafing Tampa in January 2011 and was hired as music editor in August 2016. He became Editor-In-Chief in August 2019. Past work can be seen at Suburban Apologist, Tampa Bay Times, Consequence of Sound and The...

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