What it Means

Trayvon Martin's death is tragic.

The conversation that follows is fascinating.

From USA Today:

The tragic case played out in Sanford, population 54,000, about 30 minutes north of Orlando, when Martin left his father's home to buy candy and iced tea for his little brother at a nearby 7-Eleven. He was on his way back in the rain when Zimmerman, 28, spotted him. Zimmerman was armed as he patrolled the area in his car in response to several break-ins in the community. Zimmerman called 911 to report a suspicious person, according to the call released by Sanford emergency dispatch. Against the advice of the 911 dispatcher, Zimmerman followed Martin, according to the 911 recording. The two men fought and Trayvon Martin was left dead. Zimmerman told the Sanford police that he shot the teen in self-defense because he was fearful for his life. The police have said there is no evidence to contradict Zimmerman's claims. Police say Zimmerman was bleeding from his nose and the back of his head.

Dozens of marches and rallies are taking place across the country to bring awareness about how young black men are perceived.

ABC ran this interesting story on Friday. Two mothers of black teenagers talk about the advice they give their sons to help them appear safe to be around. I find captivating. It's stories like these that I'd love to tell. Beyond just reporting "what happened" but looking into "what it means."