Barbara Lee Statement on the Trayvon Martin Case

Statement

Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement regarding the Trayvon Martin case:

"The tragedy surrounding the senseless shooting death of unarmed, 17 year-old Trayvon Martin has pricked the conscience of our nation. This young teenager was gunned down because of how he looked, because of the color of his skin. We need to see justice in this case immediately. The alleged assailant continues to walk free. As President Obama said, this is a time of soul searching for our nation as it comes to grips with this tragedy.

"Parents -- African American parents especially -- are encouraged that President Obama talked about this issue in a personal way. The Congressional Black Caucus will lead briefings on Capitol Hill this week to raise the level of awareness around the country about hate crimes and racial profiling. I am pleased by actions taken by Attorney General Eric Holder and other law enforcement leaders to conduct thorough investigations into this incident.

"While this issue has shocked American culture, it hasn't shocked me. The combination of the powerful gun lobby, racial profiling, and hate crimes make this local matter one of national attention. Sanford could be anywhere."

Source