Sanford, Florida had a chance to make a case that they are not an 80% white community that is afraid, angry and insensitive to minorities. Sanford had a chance to show in both word and deed that that justice is color blind. Sanford, Florida failed. The people of Sanford, Florida denied they perpetuate the worst aspects of racism.
Unfortunately, I know exactly where the six women of the jury were coming from. Although I cannot swear to what these women were thinking, I do know how internalized the fear of an angry black man can be and that is how Trayvon Martin was protrayed without adequate rebuttal. These women were not going to come up with a pleasing verdict to everyone no matter what they decided, so they decided to go with the verdict least likely to cause them trouble in their home community. A verdict the majority of their community was most likely to accept without a lot of rancor. Like many, I'm disappointed, but not surprised at the verdict, but this isn't about me.
Dear Sybrina Fulton & Tracy Martin,No words can convey how sorry I am at the loss of your son. Nothing will bring him back and nothing I can say is likely to ease your pain. All I can do is offer my inadequate condolences for your losses of both your son and the loss of justice for your son's senseless death.
JDWolverton