NAN: Non-Violent Reaction To Zimmerman Murder Trial Key
DETROIT (WWJ) - The Detroit Chapter of the National Action Network (NAN) is calling for a non-violent response when the verdict is reached in the George Zimmerman murder trial in Florida.
Chapter President Reverend Charles Williams II says they'll call for a federal prosecution of Zimmerman if he's acquitted.
"Don't be fooled, the only folk talking about violence and the possibility of riots - those are the folks that are on the right-wing that are trying to incite violence," said Williams.
"When this verdict comes down - that we will be ready to take to the streets - to make sure that it is ... the right way. That we call for federal prosecution of this Zimmerman immediately," he said.
Member Lory Parks believes 17-year-old Trayvon Martin was murdered.
"And I think this is a tragic moment in Florida's history for a 17-year-old to be coming from a store - with Skittles and ice tea and get murdered," said Parks. "So I hope justice will prevail in Travon Martin's case."
Williams and others at the gathering called for a non-violent reaction whatever the verdict is in the killing Martin.
He adds that it's time for escalated non-violent movement against laws such as Stand Your Ground and Detroit's emergency manager.
Williams says they've marched over many issues-- and have not had incidents of violence. Detroit police say they don't have special plans when a verdict comes down -- but remain vigilant.
