ABOUT STEVANTE CLARK

Stevante Clark’s name is inseparable from one of Sacramento’s most defining moments — the 2018 police killing of his unarmed brother, Stephon Clark, in the city’s Meadowview neighborhood. But his story is ultimately one of rebuilding, purpose, and relentless love for his community.

As the founder and CEO of the I Am SAC Foundation (SAC for Stephon Alonzo Clark), Clark has transformed grief into grassroots power, dedicating his life to healing and justice in the city that shaped him. Through his foundation, he leads trauma-informed programs centered on empowerment, mental health, and violence prevention. Its cornerstone project, Stephon’s House, serves as a community hub for families affected by gun violence and police brutality — offering housing assistance, youth mentorship, mutual aid, and counseling services.

Clark’s activism extends beyond his foundation. He serves as the creative director of the annual Stephon Clark Legacy Weekend and the Harambee Festival, both of which unite hundreds in celebration, reflection, and community healing. A recording artist and public speaker, Clark uses art and storytelling as tools for advocacy, pushing conversations about accountability, justice, and wellbeing. His activism has also included supporting Assembly Bill 392, landmark legislation that redefined the standard for police use of deadly force in California.

Through every platform — from city streets to City Hall — Clark continues to push Sacramento toward truth and transformation. Where others might have turned away from pain, he built purpose from it, reminding us that justice and healing must always coexist.

ON LEADERSHIP AND INFLUENCE

What does “Black Power and Influence” mean to you?
Power is choosing to rise from grief and scream for justice when the world tells you to stay silent. Influence is when my pain connects to yours. To have power and influence as a Black leader in Sacramento means standing for something, being above the influence, and using my voice for the voiceless.

Leadership Lesson:
True leaders hold accountability and delegate responsibility. Passion without direction is chaos — passion with direction is purpose.

Who inspires you most and why?
I’m inspired by my ancestors and the life and legacy of my brothers, Stephon Clark and De’Markus McKinnie. I carry them forward every day through the work I do.

What are the biggest opportunities you see for Sacramento’s Black community in the years ahead?
The biggest opportunities lie in unity — in coming together across every level of our community. We must prioritize mental health, build Black businesses, and promote intellectual independence for our youth. It’s too many neighborhoods, not enough neighbors.

ON EVERYDAY LIFE

Song/Artist On Repeat: “Murder to Excellence” — Jay-Z & Kanye West

Recharge Ritual: Reading and reflection.

Weekend in Sacramento: On K Street.

Hidden Passion: I create music that heals, motivates, and inspires.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our “Onyx 25” sponsors for their generous support: