Quick Hit: Florida Just Keeps Getting Worse

Just when you think things can’t get worse, they do. And I just cannot with Florida anymore…

Around the same time George Zimmerman was found not guilty of murdering Trayvon Martin, using Stand Your Ground as a defense, Marissa Alexander was sentenced to 20 years in prison for firing a warning shot in her Florida home.

Alexander was denied the ability to use Stand Your Ground as a defense in her trial though no one was harmed and she was defending herself against an abusive spouse. The double standard was glaring, but I along with many others were relieved when Florida courts granted Marissa a retrial.

That relief was short lived. Prosecutors now say the mother of two could face 60 years in prison if she is convicted again. Yes, you read correctly. 60 years: 20 years for each of her three aggravated assault charges.

As a black woman, Marissa Alexander has been painted as irrational, angry and unfit to mother for defending herself.  (Suddenly Florida courts are concerned about the well being of black children).

Now she must fight for her freedom once more and you all can help by contributing to her defense fund. It’s time to end racism and sexism in Florida and everywhere else.