Thompson Statement On Zimmerman Verdict

Statement

Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) released the following statement after a Florida jury acquitted George Zimmerman, in the killing of Florida teen Trayvon Martin:

"Saturday, the consciousness of our judiciary system was again examined, and the value of life explored. The verdict in the Zimmerman trial cast a spotlight on the real-life consequences of racial profiling and the challenges facing states like Florida, with overly broad "stand your ground laws.' Provocative laws such as this one, embolden citizens to walk the streets and, as we saw in this Florida case, take on the roles of judge, jury and executioner. I urge all Americans to re-evaluate the need for stand your ground laws in light of this verdict. We should take this moment as an opportunity to reignite Dr. King's dream of a nation where people are not judged by the color of their skin. "We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope,'" said Thompson.

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