Walking While Black – A Song for Trayvon Martin
People of conscience, please let me impart.
An American story that’s breaking my heart.
Young Trayvon went out for Skittles and a can of ice tea.
Took a break from playing video games and watching TV. (chorus)
(chorus) Trayvon is dead and Zimmerman’s free.
No justice, no peace, what a travesty!
Zimmerman claimed he was under attack,
But Trayvon’s only crime was walking while black.
Trayvon didn’t rush in the rain with his snack.
His father kept waiting for him to come back.
Trayvon wore a sweatshirt topped with a hood
Zimmerman assumed he was up to no good. (chorus)
Zimmerman reported his unfounded suspicion.
This wannabe cop then embarked on a mission.
Against police advice he followed Trayvon.
Suddenly with one shot this black child was gone. (chorus)
At Zimmerman’s trial, the jury acquitted.
“Racial profiling” evidence could not be admitted.
Trayvon was silenced so Zimmerman won.
No black boy is safe from any stalker with a gun. (chorus)
This story is tragic, it troubles me so.
Trayvon reminds me of children I know.
They see that the law puts their lives at risk too
What should we say when they ask what to do?
Music and Lyrics by Paul Stein
