Wednesday, 11 April, George Zimmerman was charged for 2nd degree murder in the killing of Trayvon Martin. There has been much speculation of the cause – be it race, be it claims by Zimmerman of provocation (although later proven false here), be it the hoodie (O, Geraldo Rivera…) – it is now, finally, up to the courts to investigate the case. 46 days later, the States Attorney’s office finally found issue with, stated simply, an armed man following a 17 year old walking in his neighborhood, and pulling the trigger. By just stating his right to “Stand your Ground,” the Florida justice system turned a blind eye to a shooting. Little to no investigation – just, it is what is and let him go. Whether it be an accident or not, as Trayvon’s mother says, it holds Zimmerman accountable and that, in itself, is justice for Trayvon… for now.
Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton. Photo credit: Getty images
via change.org:
We are still devastated by the loss of our son Trayvon Martin, and nothing can bring him back. But today, we are heartened to tell you that justice may finally be served for Trayvon.
This evening, Florida State Attorney Angela Corey announced that she will charge George Zimmerman with 2nd degree murder, weeks after he confessed to killing Trayvon — and now he’s in custody.
For weeks after Trayvon was killed, authorities refused to arrest Zimmerman. We couldn’t believe that in 2012, public officials would turn a blind eye to our son’s killing. We couldn’t let that happen.
More than 2 million people joined our call for Zimmerman’s arrest. We are so much closer to justice with the decision to bring charges against our son’s killer. We feel less alone knowing that so many people stood with our family during this impossible time.
When Trayvon was just nine, he ran into a burning house to save his father’s life. He may be gone, but he is still our hero. We are so thankful to all of you who fought to honor his memory.
Thank you for standing with us, and with Trayvon.
- Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton
- Cheryl Platon
