In a recent public meeting, Jay Wesley Day shared a harrowing account of his experience with violence and subsequent legal challenges in Atlanta. Day, originally from Chicago, recounted being attacked on November 20, 2018, outside the Joystick Game Bar on Edgewood Avenue. He described the assault as motivated by his perceived sexual orientation, during which he was verbally assaulted and physically attacked by multiple assailants.
Despite having video evidence that he was the non-aggressor, Day faced charges of affray, which were later escalated to a felony by prosecutor Keith Gammage. He expressed frustration over the legal system's handling of his case, questioning how he could be charged when he was clearly attacked. Day highlighted the personal toll this incident has taken on his life, including losing his job at Delta Airlines and facing homelessness.
In his testimony, Day also criticized the response from his pastor, who dismissed his claims and compared him to Jussie Smollett, a reference that added to his feelings of isolation and disbelief. He noted that his attempts to seek help from his church were met with rejection, further compounding his struggles.
Day's case remains ongoing, with one of his assailants still facing prosecution. His story underscores the challenges faced by victims of violence, particularly within marginalized communities, and raises questions about the effectiveness of the legal system in protecting those who are targeted.