[img]1857|right|Ms. Bass||no_popup[/img]I am saddened and outraged by the verdict reached in the murder of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old whose only crime was walking home on a rainy night.
In our sadness, we must not forget the fight for justice doesn't end with this verdict.
It is my sincere hope that the Martin family will explore civil penalties to help bring some closure to the senseless murder of their son.
We cannot be silent when a teenager is needlessly profiled, harassed and gunned down by individuals who choose to take law enforcement into their own hands.
My heart aches for Trayvon's family, particularly his mother who has shown tremendous grace and determination in the quest to find justice for her slain son.
We must honor her and Trayvon's memory by working tirelessly to end racial profiling and ensure that when crimes occur, the application of the law is equitable, just and fair for every American.
In the coming days as more protests are announced, we should all remember to be peaceful. Inciting violence will do nothing to honor Trayvon's memory or deliver the justice his family deserves.
Ms. Bass (D-Culver City), the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health and Human Rights, may be contacted at rep.karen.bass@mail.house.gov
