Michael Brown Sr. Begs for Peace in the Coming Days

In a heartfelt video released yesterday, Michael Brown Sr., Michael Brown’s father, pleaded for peace in the days surrounding the Ferguson grand jury decision.

“I thank you for lifting your voices to end racial profiling and police intimidation, but hurting others or destroying property is not the answer,” Brown said. “We live here together. This is our home. We’re stronger united.”

He says that he doesn’t want his son’s death to have been in vain, but rather he hopes that it can be a catalyst for change in the St. Louis area.

“Continue to lift your voices with us, and let’s work together to heal and to create lasting change for all people regardless of race,” he said.

The video comes in the tense days preceding the grand jury’s announcement of whether or not it will indict Darren Wilson, the police officer who is responsible for the August 9 shooting death of unarmed teenager Michael Brown.

Protests flared back up as word began to circulate that the grand jury, which has been in talks since August 20, was close to a decision. Two protestors were arrested Thursday night, and tensions have been high ever since Missouri governor Jay Nixon issued a preemptive state of emergency. The grand jury’s decision could come as early as today.