PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Former Executive Director for the Non-Violence Institute and community advocate Cedric Huntley has died.
Huntley worked with the institute for more than 20 years, and served as the Executive Director from 2020 to 2023.
He was also the civilian representative for the Rhode Island Police Accreditation Commission.
In a joint statement, Providence Police and Mayor Brett Smiley commented on his passing:
“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.”
President for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Gerard Catala said:
“On behalf of myself, Madam Vice President Nicole Tingle, and the NAACP Providence Branch family, we would like to send our deepest condolences to the Huntley family and the broader Providence community. Cedric Huntley, more commonly and respectfully known as Mr. Ceddy, has moved in many capacities over the last several decades including, community leader, role model, organizer, and coach to name a few. The state of Rhode Island and the city of Providence must strongly consider how to best honor Mr. Ceddy and the legacy he leaves behind for young leaders crossing the bridge he’s built for them. I know the NAACP Providence Branch along with several community leaders we have been in contact with are open to constructive conversations with local leaders to ensure Mr. Ceddy’s contributions are displayed as a model for future leaders to emulate. Mr. Ceddy was the NAACP Providence Branch’s 2022 Medgar Evers Award recipient. It has been an honor to have known Mr. Ceddy as one of the most profound leaders of our generation. The news of his passing has left a hole in the hearts of many. Today is truly a sad day for Rhode Islanders. #RestinPower”
There is no word yet on his cause of death or funeral arrangements.