Trayvon Martin was shot and killed on February 26, 2012, in Sanford, Florida by George Zimmerman, a member of the neighborhood watch. Trayvon Martin was only 17 years old.
In case you've forgotten the story, let me refresh your memory: Trayvon Martin was walking to his father's home in a gated community from a 7-Eleven with Skittles and an iced tea in hand. During the walk back to his father's home, he sparked the attention of George Zimmerman. Zimmerman called 911 where he was told it was not necessary for him to follow Martin.
For the full transcript of the 911 dispatch call, visit http://bit.ly/2jBknWQ
Shortly after that phone call, Trayvon Martin was shot dead by George Zimmerman.
Within a few weeks, the shooting captured national attention and an investigation was launched.
Fast forward to July 13, 2013: George Zimmerman was found not guilty of second-degree murder nor the lesser charge of manslaughter by an all female jury.
Shortly after, Zimmerman was found at gun shows SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS.
But I don't want to remember him.
I want to remember Trayvon Martin.
Trayvon Martin had just celebrated his 17th and final birthday. I've read that he celebrated his birthday with his family and a nice home-cooked meal. The last birthday presents he ever received were Issey Miyake cologne, Levi's jeans, and Adidas sneakers. I've read his favorite school subject was math and he dreamed of becoming a pilot.
I wonder what he was like, what his interests were. I want to know what his favorite color was, what music he listened to, who he looked up to, his hopes and his dreams. But I'll never get to know that.
He would've been 22 this year. I write this as a 22-year-old white female and I can't help but feel remorseful and embarrassingly aware of my own white privilege.
What if it would've been me walking around that gate protected community? Would I have been shot? Would I have been seen as a threat? Would I fit the description of someone who looks like they are "up to no good"?
Why or why not? What is the difference between us? Why do I get to live to be 22 and he doesn't?
I pray for the family of Trayvon Martin. I pray for his friends. I pray for any and everyone who's life was affected by this tragedy. I have not and will not forget about Trayvon Martin.
Trayvon Martin's death was not in vain. It woke up an entire generation. We still have A LOT of work to do, but America is finally having these difficult conversations that are long overdue.
We will continue to remember Trayvon Martin as his death serves as a reminder of what type of world we live in. It is a reminder that we live in a broken system. He is our movement for justice, the work to be done in this country. And we will never let them forget that.
R.I.P. Trayvon Martin
February 5, 1995 - February 26, 2012
