By Tara Andrews, Esq. The racial implications of Trayvon Martin’s death and George Zimmerman’s acquittal are undeniable and are commanding a much-needed response. The public debate thus far has focused on overt racism. I contend, however, that overt racism alone didn’t kill Trayvon Martin. Implicit bias was a key accomplice in Trayvon’s death. Implicit bias… Continue Reading Implicit Bias and Trayvon’s Legacy
By Qudsia Jafree Senior Policy & Advocacy Associate, Racial Justice and Civil Rights This week, the U.S. has been involved in an important, nationwide conversation about racial profiling and civil rights. This conversation has involved voices from every side of the political and social spectrum, discussing everything from Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law and when/to… Continue Reading Some Things to Remember as We Talk about Race, Identity and Trayvon Martin
by Paulette T. Cross, Ph.D. Transitional Housing Economic Empowerment Specialist, YWCA Salt Lake City If someone or anyone had responded to the Trayvon Martin incident, perhaps he would still be alive today. Response methods are critical in doing “social justice” work. When do you respond? What do you say? What if the intervention is wrong? … Continue Reading Anti-Discrimination Training as a Response to Racism
by Erica Thurman YWCA McLean County (Ill.) “Excuse me young man, are you lost?” It may have been just that simple. Seven words may have made all the difference in the world to the family of Trayvon Martin. As the nation — and much of the world — looks for answers, it may be more… Continue Reading We Are George Zimmerman
by Mary Semela Director of Development, YWCA USA I am a white parent of young African-American men. Every parent of these young men in the United States either has a memory of “the talk” with their children, or is anticipating it with a depth of sadness I can’t even begin to explain. How do you… Continue Reading When Life Isn’t Fair: A Mother’s Perspective on the Trayvon Martin Case