Family Of Trayvon Martin Calls For 'Peaceful Change' Amid Nationwide Rallies
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Saturday marks one week since George Zimmerman's acquittal. A jury found him not guilty in the death of teenager Trayvon Martin.
But protesters are still making their voices heard, holding rallies and vigils across America, including right here in Baltimore.
Linh Bui reports.
A crowd of 100 marched through downtown Baltimore--united for Trayvon Martin.
"The system. The fears. The attitude. The beliefs. The policies of this country need to change," said Faraji Muhammad, Black Youth Project.
"Justice for Trayvon" rallies were held in at least 100 cities Saturday.
In New York City, Martin's mother held back tears.
"Not only do I vow to you to do what I can for Trayvon Martin, I promise you I am going to work hard for your children as well," said Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon Martin's mother.
Even superstars Beyonce and Jay Z showed their support.
Demonstrators want the justice department to file civil rights charges against Zimmerman. There's also a push to end Florida's "stand your ground" law--that allows people to use deadly force to protect themselves.
"Today it was Trayvon Martin who got killed, but tomorrow it could be my son or someone else," said Maxie DaCosta, protester.
Martin's family called for peaceful change.
"Nobody is hurting more, I feel, than me and my family. So please just follow us. Let us lead you," Fulton said.
As police officers watched nearby, protesters said Trayvon Martin represents something much greater now.
"I would like to see us not be judged by the color of our skin, but by the content of our character," said Cynthia Kemp, protester.
More demonstrations are planned for next week.
Meantime, George Zimmerman has not been seen since a jury found him not guilty.
