Hoodies for Justice

Up until last month, a hooded sweatshirt was merely an article of clothing worn by many different people from all walks of life. Hoodies did not discriminate; they were not worn by one specific gender, race, class or ethnicity. The hooded sweatshirt was a universal clothing choice for comfort. In the wake of the death of 17 year old Trayvon Martin, the hoodie has become much more than what it was merely a month ago. The hoodie now represents support for Trayvon Martin during the search for his justice. Several protests and peaceful marches have been organized across the county in support of Trayvon Martin and his family, and a vast majority of these supporters are donning hoodies in memory of him. From NBA players to church congregants to state elected officials in New York, the hoodie is catching recognition and gaining power in the media. With so much support also comes a good deal of negativity. Geraldo Rivera's comments about Trayvon Martin's hoodie and its role in his untimely death sparked a lot of controversy in the media. Besides Rivera, many people also believe that the hoodie is a sign of menace or gang affiliation. Ultimately, the hoodie and what it stands for is entirely subjective. Interpret it as a socially constructed symbol for justice for Trayvon Martin, or view it as an article of clothing that both generates and triggers stereotypes of minorities. Either way, a hoodie did not kill an unarmed 17 year old boy, a man with a gun did.