Trayvon Martin Foundation’s tenth annual peace walk and talk (includes video story)

This past Saturday morning at Ives Estates Park in North Dade,  the Trayvon Martin Foundation hosted its Tenth Annual Peace Walk and Peace Talk to commemorate the tragedy that occurred over a decade ago. 

Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old unarmed African-American teenager, was shot and killed by neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman while walking home from a store in Sanford, Florida, on February 26, 2012. 

This year’s annual Peace Walk was held for the first time on Trayvon’s birthday. He would have been 27 years old on  Saturday. 

Crowds of people joined in solidarity as they marched in Trayvon’s name, chanting, “No Justice. No Peace.”

The event brought together the community, motivational speakers, local bands, dancers and vendors. 

Martin’s death has put a spotlight on the struggles the African-American community continues to face despite the rise of various movements such as Black Lives Matter. It has empowered inner-city youth by sparking a dialogue about racial profiling and the need for social change. 

Among those who took the stage at the event were Trayvon’s mother, Sybrina, Fulton and his father, Tracy Martin. 

“The country has changed, but we have a long way to go,” said Tracy. “We understand the magnitude of a movement like this being diversified, so it will take all of us to not only inspire change but to make the change. There are people here from all different colors and walks of life coming out to support, and that means a lot.” 

Guests included actor Jamie Foxx and Miami Gardens Mayor Rodney Harris.  

“On behalf of the city of Miami Gardens, it is truly an honor to be with everyone here and the Martin family for all the sacrifices they have made,” said Mayor Harris. “We are fighting and will continue to stand up and stand strong to keep this fight alive so that justice is served.”  

The Trayvon Martin Foundation has worked diligently over the past ten years to find solutions and rebuild positive self-images in the African-American community. 

On Sunday night, February 6, the foundation also hosted its annual Remembrance Dinner and Champion for Justice Awards at the DoubleTree in Miami. The proceeds went to youth empowerment and scholarship programs. 

If you would like more information on future events or to donate to the Trayvon Martin Foundation, please make sure to check out their website or contact them via telephone at (786) 504-4235.

Anya Joseph is a digital broadcasting major with a passion for athletics. Enjoys travel and marketing. Looks to pursue sports journalism and sports psychology. Her goal is to work as a production assistant and sideline reporter telling the stories behind the brand.

Jessica Acosta is a senior majoring in Digital Broadcasting at Florida International University. After her studies, she plans to pursue her dream career of working in the entertainment industry as an actress or as a TV personality/host.

Veronica Hernandez is a senior at Florida International University pursuing a bachelor's degree in Digital Journalism. She obtained an associate degree in Mass Communication & Journalism at Miami-Dade College. Veronica would like to be a TV anchor or reporter after she graduates. She is devoted to her community and strives to provide a voice to the voiceless.