Newark Activist Was ‘Loud Voice For Social Justice’: Natasha Allen

NEWARK, NJ — A longtime activist and “loud voice for social justice” in Newark recently passed away, advocates say.

Natasha Allen died on June 24 at her home, according to a statement from the Newark Anti-Violence Coalition (NAVC).

Allen – an original co-founding member of the NAVC – was also an advocate for local control of the Newark Public School District, and a “loud voice for social justice,” the group said.

A wake and funeral was held on Friday at Mount Zion Baptist Church, including a eulogy from South Ward Councilman Pat Council and messages of remembrance from her peers at the NAVC. Mayor Ras Baraka also spoke in Allen's memory, offering gratitude for her commitment and service of her community and the city.

Bashir Muhammad Ptah Akinyele, a history and Africana studies teacher at Weequahic High School, said Allen will be remembered fondly in Newark:

“Rest in uhuru (African Kiswahili word for freedom) forever Natasha. Duwa (an African Kemetic / Egyptian word for giving thanks) for all the good work you did for Black people, for Brown people, for poor people, for oppressed people, for marginalized people, and for the city of Newark, NJ."

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.