Obama Speaks Out On Zimmerman Verdict

President Obama spoke about the George Zimmerman not guilty verdict Friday and compared the slain Trayvon Martin to himself.

“Trayvon Martin could have been me 35 years ago,” said the President. “There are very few African-American men in this country who haven’t had the experience of being followed while they were shopping at a department store. That includes me.”

He went on to talk about how the law looks at race and urged that everyone reevaluate their thinking and try to be as unbiased as possible.

“We have to be vigilant and work on these issues,” advised the President.

Zimmerman was acquitted last Saturday on charges of second-degree murder and manslaughter. Since the verdict was released, there have been nonviolent protests all over the country. Obama said that those urging that federal civil rights charges be placed against Zimmerman must “have some clear expectations.”

He is also encouraging Trayvon Martin supporters to remain peaceful in their protests against the Zimmerman verdict.

Check out the video below.