The Last Words of Brother Chris

Slain community activist Chris Crowder was the final witness at a March 31 hearing of the D.C. Council Committee on Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

Introduced by Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham only as “Brother Chris,” Crowder, in one of his final public statements, showed a glimpse of the spunk that once pissed off the likes of Bill Cosby but made him a memorable presence in neighborhood debates.

Spoke Brother Chris: “I’m gonna overlook that I heard there were threats to certain people if they organize in tenant groups, because I know we do have some tough guys in this city who can help some of you citizens if you are being threatened. So I’m not even gonna pretend I heard some of that tonight. I end saying thank you, thank you, and thank you.”