Nearly a month ago and still no arrest:
I as well as many Americans and others around the world, have been following the news reports of the killing of 17 year old Florida resident Trayvan Martin, by a neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman.
Though the Sanford police department did not agree that the shooting death of an unarmed teen was anything other than self defense, the mounting evidence clearly suggests that this incident should be labeled a homicide and possible hate crime.
There has been such an outcry for justice as has not been seen for quite some time in regards to this tragedy and those of similar comparison. This particular incident has sparked mass marches of support and public outrage in cities from New York to Los Angeles. Many people around the world have also weighed in, with heartfelt condolences for Trayvan’s family and harsh criticisms of the assumed legal mishandling and other issues
Written by Jon B. Crenshaw
surrounding this incident. Many have expressed pride that this teen’s parents have refused to allow their son’s death to go unjustified and unpunished. People of all ethnic groups have voiced their opinions on Youtube, Twitter and other social networking outlets as well. On Facebook poets and writers are posting odes and short commentaries in memory of Trayvan, in hopes of inspiring others to join in the fight for justice for this young black male that seemingly had such a bright future ahead of him.
There have been a few allegations to the affect of “the good ole boy network” is still at work in the Sanford Florida gated community where young Mr. Martin was brutally killed. Many point to the fact that in the least the Sanford police chief and the officers who arrived at the scene, should have investigated Mr. Zimmerman more thoroughly rather than take his word at face value.
Due to this horrendous killing of a child that many feel reeks of racist undertones, parents of young black males in particular are quoted as being extremely afraid for their son’s lives; noting that they recognize and accept that racism is still very alive in America. Many believe the election of a black president or no, racism has not died nor has it dwindled and as such, believe this incident will undoubtedly illuminate that fact.
Will justice prevail? Only time will tell. Will race-relations ever change in America? My personal opinion; though I’m an optimist I believe no.
I agree… that the ending lines of your story will NOT END….
It is true, that this story, has touched so many lives… not just here in the states, but worldwide. Such a tragedy, an abrupt ending to a life *a child*, still having his life to live out… Justice will it prevail? I hope so- but as mentioned above- The incident, the murder wasn’t investigated correctly! For many have said, quoted, and stated… If, this were a white on white crime- than arrests out the ying-yang would have been made. Racisms is the rudest form of intelligence everywhere… So, stupid to think… that a neighborhood watch residence, thought of himself in such ways; as a, KING, OR WAR LORD…
I hope with my efforts alone to reach as many as I can… making them aware that racism, prejudice of any form should, and will not be tolerated!!!
I too am a optimist, unfortunately optimism is not contagious. Unlike unjustifiable fear, which I believe is the case with most rascist. Maybe one day we will stop fearing one another. Until then I watch my back, and pay close attention to my bothers and teach my son’s to be aware of their surroundings particularly when in white dominated areas. It is sad that in order to sheild our sons we must teach them to fear those who fear them.
It reminds me of September 11, 2001, soon after the attack, an Indian (East Indian) friend of mine shared with me that he no longer felt safe, because people kept looking at him strangely. He went on to share his concern for his wife and family. For a few moments I was unsure what he expected me to say, I felt as though he was looking for understanding, maybe empathy. When I realized I was silent, I said as matter of fact as I could…”Welcome to the club, welcome to my America.”