Boston Mayor Wu Issues Apology to Wrongfully Accused Black Men in 1989 Murder Case

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu publicly apologized to Willie Bennett and Alan Swanson, two Black men who were wrongfully accused in the 1989 murder of a pregnant white woman. The accusation caused outrage in Boston's Black community, as many felt the police unfairly targeted Black residents. Bennett and Swanson were later cleared, and Charles Stuart, the woman's husband, was found responsible for orchestrating the murder. Mayor Wu acknowledged the injustice, racism, and wrongdoing, and presented official letters of apology to both families. The Bennett family had previously sued the city and received a settlement. The apology was accepted, and the hope is that healing and awareness can begin to address the generational trauma caused by the tragedy.