Hoyer Honors New UMD Plaza Dedicated to the Life and Legacy of Lt. Richard Collins III

COLLEGE PARK, MD – This morning, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) attended the dedication ceremony for the new Lt. Richard Collins III Plaza at the University of Maryland, College Park. The plaza honors the life and legacy of Bowie State University student 1st Lt. Richard Collins III who was murdered in an act of racial violence on the campus in 2017.

"It was a great honor to join so many in the Fifth District community today to honor the life and legacy of a patriot, Lt. Richard Collins III," said Congressman Hoyer. "Just five years ago, Lt. Richard Collins III was murdered in a despicable act of hatred and bigotry and the pain and grief of his loss is still felt by so many. The Plaza unveiled for the first time today is not only a tribute to the integrity, grace, and promise of Lt. Collins, but also an everlasting reminder of the work that must be done to eliminate the evil that breeds white supremacy and hate-based violence once and for all."

"While this Plaza will not eviscerate racism in our country, it is an important step," continued Congressman Hoyer. "The partnership between Bowie State University and the University of Maryland to honor Lt. Collins and reject hate is an example of the good that can come when each of us stand together to repudiate senseless violence and embrace love. I thank the Collins family, who have shown great courage in the face of extreme hardship, the President of Bowie State University, Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, and the President of the University of Maryland, College Park, Dr. Darryll Pines, for working to build a positive memorial and for continuing to celebrate the legacy of Lt. Collins. It is my hope that for years to come, students and community members alike can reflect in this Plaza and find the resolve to advance the mission of social justice and equality."

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