Cousin of journalist killed in Norfolk shooting launches movement in her honor

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Two years ago, the city of Norfolk was making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Journalist Sierra Jenkins and two others were killed backstage at Chicho on Granby Street in downtown Norfolk.

The artist Sesil Jenkins, known as Marvin Gaye's protégé, was Jenkins' cousin. He returned to his hometown from Las Vegas to start a national movement called Take Back Our Children.

Justice was not served in Chicho's case. Fearing for their lives, witnesses refused to testify in court. Since Sierra's death, dozens of other young people in Hampton Roads have been killed in gun violence.

Jenkins is no stranger to the entertainment scene and knows the streets. Jenkins, now 70, was a member of a gang called the Corner Boys. After his cousin's death, he started a nonprofit organization that plans to address social ills that contribute to criminal activity.

“All gang members, please talk to me.” Come talk with me. I know it's a question of funds. Yes, it's a question of funds. I am willing to contribute the funds to TBOC so we can educate you on what you want to do in life,” Jenkins said.

Saturday evening, Jenkins will kick off the black-tie pre-inauguration fundraiser in downtown Norfolk. A national music tour could follow next year. He hopes the Hampton Roads area's sports and music superstars will join his efforts.

“I use what I have now. I'm calling Missy. I call Pharrell, I call Timbaland, I call Pusha T, and so on. I'm old school. You all know that I will give my life for each of you. Now follow me so we can change the paradigm here in Virginia. First, Norfolk, Hampton Roads, and then we’ll expand it nationally,” Jenkins said.

For more information about the fundraising event, contact Dr. Sesil Jenkins via email: [email protected].