Well I meant to post at the beginning of the month but time got away from me. Just got finished watching the reading of the verdict in the Zimmerman/Martin case and I am shocked and saddened to say the least. But this I know: George Zimmerman has to live with what he did for the rest of his life. This is a sad fact that some may not understand. Just as many of us have stood in support of the Martin family there have been just as many supporters for Zimmerman and this so called "Stand Your Ground" law that ultimately lead to his release.
In graduate school I learned a lot about the historical significance of laws and how they impact my work as a social worker from a macro (big picture) perspective. As problems arose in our society the need for laws became necessary. Laws are born out of social problems. Point blank period! Once a social problem is deemed big enough to impact the larger society, then there are processes set the path for it first becoming a Bill and then moving forward to become Law.
As I think about Trayvon Martin and his family I look to the lesson that is in this. We must look at this as a social issue - a universal issue - that needs to be addressed as such. The events that led to this evening's decision bring light to the many social problems that this country obviously disagree on. If we all agreed then George Zimmerman would be in jail. It is time for society to redefine the values and issues that are important and then see to it that these things are addressed as a collective.
Instead of complaining about the injustice that was clearly displayed this evening, we must arm ourselves with the knowledge of how laws are formed and more importantly how laws are changed. To learn more about this process check out How Laws Are Made. The unique thing about our political system is that the same processes that led to Zimmerman's acquittal can also be used to stop this injustice from happening again. It just takes some work from a few dedicated and motivated individuals that will be loud enough and diligent enough to see it through. The question is: Who's going to get started to bring the true change needed to ensure the safety and security of our children?
