Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reacted to the acquittal of George Zimmerman for shooting Trayvon Martin in self-defense while speaking Tuesday evening to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the largest African-American women’s organization in the country.
“My prayers are with the Martin family and with every family who loves someone who is lost to violence,” Clinton said. “No mother, no father, should ever have to fear for their child walking down a street in the United States of America.”
She added that the not guilty verdict for Zimmerman “brought heartache, deep painful heartache” to families.
Clinton also mentioned U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder’s announcement Monday that he and the Department of Justice will pursue the matter further.
“Yesterday I know you heard from the Attorney General about the next steps from the Justice Department and the need for a national dialogue,” she stated. “As we move forward as we must I hope this sisterhood will continue to be a force for justice and understanding.”
More than 14,000 listeners were in attendance. As she left, cheers of “Run, Hillary, Run!” rose from the audience.