Turning Tragedy Into Action: Albert Corado's Fight for Justice After Sister Mely’s Death
SAY THEIR NAME - Episode 6
Albert Corado's life changed forever on July 21, 2018, when his sister Mely was tragically killed by police gunfire while working at Trader Joe's. In this powerful episode of Say Their Name, Albert shares his journey from grief to activism, offering a raw and honest look at the aftermath of police violence.
The Life of Mely Corado
"Mely led with her heart, always looking to find what connects people. She tried to see the world in a humanistic, loving way, believing everyone was worthy of love." - Albert Corado
Growing up in Los Angeles, Albert and Mely were close siblings who shared a deep bond forged through early loss and immigrant family experiences. Mely was known for her warmth, cooking skills, and ability to connect with others. Albert describes her as "me, but nicer," highlighting her empathetic nature and dedication to her work and loved ones.
Tragedy Hits
The day of the incident started as a normal Saturday, but quickly spiraled into chaos when a police pursuit ended at Mely's workplace. In the confusion, as Mely rushed out to see what was happening outside, police fired into the crowded store, fatally wounding Mely. Albert recounts the agonizing hours of uncertainty as the family desperately sought information, only to have their worst fears confirmed.
Facing unimaginable grief, Albert and his family made the difficult decision to pursue legal action against the city. While acknowledging that no amount of money could bring Mely back, Albert saw the lawsuit as a way to keep her story in the public eye and hold those responsible accountable.
The legal process was grueling, spanning nearly six years and filled with delays and frustrations. Albert describes the emotional toll of repeatedly preparing for trial dates that were postponed, leaving the family in a constant state of anxiety and anticipation.
Turning to Activism
Parallel to the legal battle, Albert found purpose in activism. He co-founded People's City Council Los Angeles, focusing on police accountability and community empowerment. Through this work, he's been able to educate others about their rights and the allocation of city resources, turning his pain into a force for change.
"My sister was 27. She was at work. What does this world mean if a person just living their life and doing their job can be gunned down?" - Albert Corado
Albert's story is a powerful reminder of the human cost of police violence and the long, difficult road to justice. He emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for systemic change to prevent future tragedies.
For those inspired by Albert's journey, he encourages getting involved in local politics and community organizations. Understanding city budgets, attending council meetings, and supporting groups working for police accountability are all ways to make a difference.
To hear more of Albert's powerful story and insights on turning grief into action, listen to the full episode of Say Their Name: Mely Corado. Join the community working to ensure that victims of police violence are not forgotten and that their stories drive meaningful change.
Ready to dive deeper into the Corado family’s story? Listen to the full episode for more on the beautiful life of Mely and Albert’s fight for justice. And remember, until truth and justice are obtained, we will always Say Their Name.
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