The march was organized via Facebook and encouraged everyone who attended to wear a hoodie — the article of clothing that 17-year-old Trayvon was wearing when he was pursued and shot dead by a neighborhood watch volunteer in Sanford, Florida. Organizers also asked participants to share their hoodie photos via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #MillionHoodies.
Martin’s parents, Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton, told the crowed, “We want arrests.” The victim’s father continued, “My son did not deserve to die,” and then thanked supporters for coming out. Fulton followed up: “My heart is in pain, but to see the support of all of you really makes a difference. This is not a Black and White thing — this is about a right or wrong thing.”
According to ESSNCE’s News Editor, Wendy Wilson, many among predominately young crowd carried signs with Trayvon’s photo, while others toted signs asking for peace as they chanted “No justice, no peace,” and “Arrest Zimmerman.”
There was also a woman who stood on a garbage can handing out Skittles to supporters — representing the Skittles and Arizona Iced Tea the victim had when he was gunned down.
In light of last night’s event, it appears that support is spreading across the nation: A march is planned for this evening at 5 p.m. at Leimert Park in Los Angeles, and Rev. Al Sharpton will also be holding a rally tonight at a church in Sanford, Florida where the shooting occurred.
