As a former site director at the South Providence Recreation Center and director of student support services at The MET school, Huntley was the rare community leader who had the respect of law enforcement all over the state and credibility with residents that are at times reluctant to work with the police.
Just check out the outpouring of gratitude that has come in since Huntley died:
”’Mr. Ced’ was a pillar in his community, a reassuring presence at the Southside Rec, and a peacemaker in his long career with the Met High School. He came out of retirement to lead the Nonviolence Institute and continue his life work of building the beloved community. – Keith Morton from the Nonviolence Institute.
”Cedric Huntley leaves behind a significant mark in Providence through his commitment to peace and nonviolence. As the former director of the Nonviolence Institute and a tireless advocate in our community, Cedric’s legacy of compassion, dedication and transformative impact will continue to inspire us all. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones. You will be missed Mr. Ced.” – Providence Police
”I had deep admiration and respect for Cedric as an engaged leader, guiding mentor, and kind friend. He knew this was really hard work. Most interactions with Cedric started with, ‘How are you doing?’ no matter how busy he was. And he meant it. He waited for a response, and then asked thoughtful questions and offered supportive encouragement when needed. He took the time to show that he cared. That made a difference, adding a calming effect to that moment. I will greatly miss him and his many contributions to nonviolence, gun violence prevention, and safer communities.” – Sydney Montstream-Quas from the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence’s mission
”A friend of law enforcement, Cedric worked tirelessly to bring people together to find common ground. His passion for teaching young people that nonviolence is the solution undoubtedly saves countless lives. The state of Rhode Island and especially our urban areas have benefitted from Cedric’s lifetime of work.” – Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association
”Within his role as founder of the Institute for Nonviolence and beyond through his work at the Met School and, profoundly, as a neighbor, Mr. Huntley was a changemaker. Mr. Huntley’s values, mission, and commitment to serve as a connector undoubtedly made Rhode Island safer for all.” The Judiciary joins the Providence and greater Rhode Island community in mourning Mr. Huntley’s loss. – Rhode Island Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul A. Suttell.
If you’d like to add your thoughts about Huntley’s legacy, please comment below.
This story first appeared in Rhode Map, our free newsletter about Rhode Island that also contains information about local events, links to interesting stories, and more. If you’d like to receive it via e-mail Monday through Friday, you can sign up here.
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Dan McGowan can be reached at dan.mcgowan@globe.com. Follow him @danmcgowan.