Tragedy into triumph: Sherman Park hosts school supply giveaway

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Community members got ready for the new school year Thursday night, Aug. 13, and memorialized the Sherman Park unrest at the same time.

Fifteen hundred backpacks were given away at Sherman Park, complete with school supplies.

There was also food, music and free haircuts.

Sylville Smith's older brother says Thursday night's giveaway is meant to turn tragedy into triumph.

"We're happy to be a part of this community, we're happy to give back to this community," Sedan Smith said. "Whatever we can do to make sure that Sylville's name isn't implemented in anything negative."

Smith was killed by a Milwaukee police officer in 2016.

Since then, the area around Sherman Park has been renovated and improved for the community.