Trayvon Martin’s mom announces run for Miami-Dade commission
MIAMI-DADE The mother of slain teen Trayvon Martin announced early Monday that she is running for a seat on the Miami-Dade County Commission.
Sybrina Fulton released a campaign video announcing her candidacy on YouTube.
“This is an opportunity to continue to turn the tragedy in my family into positive action that helps thousands of other families,” her campaign statement said.
In the Central Florida town of Sanford in February of 2012, neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman fatally shot Fulton’s 17-year-old unarmed son. After a trial that was followed around the world, Zimmerman was acquitted in July of 2013.
In her announcement, Fulton, of Miami Gardens, notes that she has worked for Miami-Dade County Government for 24 years and has seen first-hand how county government can affect people’s lives.
“I’m a real, everyday Miami-Dade mom, but I’ve also worked my way up in county government,” Fulton said. “I know the need for new leaders focused on narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor. I’m determined to make economic and social change for my community.”
Fulton is running for the District 1 seat of the Miami-Dade County Commission, now held by Barbara Jordan, who must retire because of term limits.
She is challenging announced candidate Oliver Gilbert, the mayor of Miami Gardens, according to the Miami Herald