Many Black Americans are wrapping their arms around Karmelo Anthony, the Black 17-year-old who was convicted of murdering a white teen at a high school track meet in Texas. As his family prepares to appeal his conviction and his 35-year prison sentence, Anthony’s parents are sharing the story of the son they knew and loved.
Karmelo’s father, Andrew Anthony, described the situation as a “nightmare” in a June 11 interview with “The Breakfast Club,” saying that the idea that their son was convicted and sentenced still does not feel real.
“He is a wonderful son. He’s a wonderful student,” his mother, Kala Hayes, added, fighting back tears.
Karmelo’s parents went on to praise him for maintaining a 3.7 GPA while working two jobs and being a member of the track and football teams at his school.
Related: After the Karmelo Anthony Verdict, Black Parents Are Having Conversations They Never Wanted To Have
During “The Breakfast Club interview,” Anthony’s parents told Mimi Brown they feel the world didn’t get a true picture of their son through the trial, describing him as a “lovable, sincere” child who enjoyed hanging out with his friends and younger siblings.
“I didn’t know how great he was until this tragedy,” Andrew Anthony said, adding that he’s learned about even more wonderful examples of how his son has helped others through this painful process.
Anthony’s parents admitted that they didn’t know how cruel the world could be, recalling how disturbing it was to see their child’s face all over the media, even though he is still a minor. They said they were doxxed and faced countless threats from people who showed up at their home.
Hayes and Anthony added that they wished they had done more to get their story out to the public, but instead followed the advice of their legal counsel and did not give interviews or attempt to make Karmelo’s case about race. One of the most painful realities the family has had to face is feeling they were manipulated by a system that didn’t truly care about justice for their son.
“They acted as if they cared, but they really didn’t,” Andrew Anthony said.
Kala Hayes says that while she normally attends Karmelo’s track meets and other events, she stayed home due to bad weather in the area, a decision she says continues to haunt her.
“I regret not being there for my child,” Karmelo’s mother said.
Karmelo’s grandmother, Toni Hayes, who was at the courthouse with the family for the sentencing, was heard chanting that the trial was “racist, biased” and “prejudiced.” She said this is not the end, promising that the family will continue to fight for justice.
