Horsford's Reaction to President Obama's Comments on Trayvon Martin

Statement

Today, Representative Horsford (NV-4) released the following statement after President Obama's comments regarding Trayvon Martin:

"President Obama's historic comments today about Trayvon Martin represent an opportunity to have a meaningful conversation in our country. The tragic death of Trayvon Martin and the resulting trial have exposed feelings of distrust and disparity about our justice system that must be addressed.

"I can relate to President Obama's personal reaction and how this feels from an African American perspective. It could have been me too, 25 years ago. As an African American male growing up, I recall the angst I felt driving, shopping at a store, or walking home from work late at night. I recall fearing that I would become a statistic: that by the age of 25 I would either be in jail or dead.

"As a parent of three (including two young boys), I know that they have bright futures. As the President said, "we've made progress," but progress doesn't mean we've closed the book. All children deserve to walk home from a convenience store, having done nothing wrong, free from fear of being profiled, harassed, or killed. That's not a future any parent wants for their child.

"Those participating in non-violent demonstrations and vigils should continue to pay tribute to Trayvon Martin's family in a peaceful manner. As a nation, we must work together to understand and address the complicated and historical circumstances surrounding this tragedy, because too many young black men have already paid the ultimate sacrifice.

"We should review state laws like "stand your ground" and "stop-and-frisk." We must address barriers to fair and equal employment, education, and housing. We need to mentor and teach our young boys to become men who exercise good judgment and to provide for their families as they grow.

"Most importantly, we must continue to improve our society and live up to our civil rights ideals. I am prepared to do my part, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and my constituents to make those ideals a reality."

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