Reaction to the Zimmerman Verdict: A Critical Analysis of Media, Political and Public Response in the Age of Social Networking

• In Event: Race, Crime and Justice: Understanding the Death and Trial of Trayvon Martin

Abstract

The acquittal of George Zimmerman produced strong and polarizing reactions within print, social media, and televised outlets. The verdict reaffirmed the existence of racial and political fault lines within our society. The response to this case in the media and general public reveal the historically antagonistic relationship between disenfranchised groups and the criminal justice system, an antagonism perpetuated by negative personal and/or vicarious experiences. This chapter provides a qualitative assessment of the public and media response to the verdict, with an emphasis on the protests against social injustice that were organized throughout the country, and the public’s demand for federal civil rights charges against Zimmerman. This chapter concludes with a discussion of the implications of these actions for future criminal cases.

Authors

• Chenelle Jones, Ohio Dominican University

• Mia Ortiz, Bridgewater State University