According to CNN, Miami-Dade County commissioners approved a resolution this week to name a portion of NE 16th Avenue in Florida after 17-year-old Trayvon Martin who was shot and killed by George Zimmerman back in 2012. Trayvon’s story was near and dear to so many because he was such a young soul with tremendous amounts of potential. Our hearts seemed to have taken another wound as the killer George Zimmerman was acquitted of the murder, in turn sparking national outrage.
The city’s official resolution highlighted that:
“Trayvon Martin was a typical teenager who enjoyed playing video games, listening to music, watching movies and talking and texting on the phone,” They also added that Martin “was developing advanced mechanical skills and, among other things, was known to be able to build and fix dirt bikes…Martin intended to stay close to home and attend college at either the University of Miami or Florida A&M University.”
Unfortunately, since Travon’s tragic murder there has been an increase in unjust killings. We have continuously been met with immense hatred as black brothers and sisters meet their fate at the hands of an entitled officer (or neighbor). Although we cannot bring back the precious life of Travon, this street right in front of where Trayvon Martin attended high school will help to immortalize his life, in hopes that it inspires all of us who continue to seek justice and search for hope.