RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) -- Nearly 300 people crowded the steps of the John Marshall Courthouse building Sunday evening, showing support for the family of Trayvon Martin.
The gathering also spoke critically of the jury that acquitted George Zimmerman of murder charges Saturday afternoon.
The Martin/Zimmerman case has been the focus of national attention, sparking debate about race and self defense in the United States.
"What do we do? What do each one of us do," State Delegate Dolores McQuinn told the crowd.
"It is time for us to do something," City Council member Michelle R. Mosby said.
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While the majority of the crowd was African American, other races were present too. Matt Shelton says it's not a black issue, but a white issue.
"It is important for white people to be here to show that we care," Shelton said.
While there were no Pro-Zimmerman rallies in Richmond Sunday,
Zimmerman has his supporters on social media.
Rebecca Forren wrote, "Jury...you made the right decision. End of story."
Brian Jones added, "Glad the jury could look past the racial overtones and decide based on the merits of the case."
Richmonder Devin Alexander blames the media for sensationalizing this story, but concluded the jury did the right thing in the end.
"Zimmerman was well within his rights of the law," Alexander said.
The Richmond NAACP did not share that opinion vowing to fight.
“This case should be considered a call to action to all those who support laws and legislation that does not allow loopholes for injustice, racial profiling, and other acts of discrimination,” said Dr. Kim Allen, President of the Richmond Branch of the NAACP. “It is our responsibility to take the actions necessary to protect the rights and lives of ourselves, our families and our communities.” [BONUS: Click to read the Richmond NAACP's complete statement.]
