MoveOn, Sharpton Join Forces on Trayvon Activism

For the second time since the jury cast its verdict in the George Zimmerman case, MoveOn.org has sent out a fundraising letter riding on the coattails of the tragic death of Trayvon Martin.

Within a few hours of the verdict announcement last Saturday night, liberal activist group MoveOn joined NAACP President Ben Jealous in a mailer about the George Zimmerman verdict.

The newest email went out Thursday night and supported the upcoming rallies being led by MSNBC host Al Sharpton.

The mailer reads:

What: Since Saturday’s acquittal of George Zimmerman, who was found not guilty on all charges in the slaying of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin, more than 550,000 MoveOn members have called on the Department of Justice to bring civil rights charges against Zimmerman. Now, MoveOn members are joining Rev. Al Sharpton, activists, faith leaders from the National Action Network, and other progressive allies in 100 cities across the country, to hold prayer vigils and rallies urging the Department of Justice to press charges. Can you join us on Saturday?

At the bottom of the mailer, MoveOn asks readers to donate money to them. The MoveOn Sharpton promo email says:

Want to support our work? MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 8 million members — no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.

Sharpton is a divisive figure, but the rallies and fundraising appear to have the approval of Martin’s parents. Both parents appeared for the full hour of Sharpton’s Thursday episode of his MSNBC show Politics Nation. Additionally, both parents will be attending his rallies; Trayvon’s mother is scheduled to appear with Sharpton in New York and Trayvon’s father will be at the Miami event.