Open Story: Trayvon Martin shootingJoin the conversation
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- Trayvon Martin, 17, was shot dead one month ago in Sanford, Florida
- Across the country, many are demanding the man who shot him be arrested
- Martin's shooter says he shot in self-defense
- CNN wants to know what you think of the controversy
(CNN) -- On February 26 in Sanford, Florida, 17-year-old Trayvon Martin was shot and killed while walking home from a convenience store.
The incident has sparked nationwide conversations, debates and rallies about whether race played a role in Martin's death. Martin is black, and his admitted shooter, neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman, is a Hispanic. Also under fire is Florida's so-called "Stand Your Ground" law, which allows people to use force in self-defense.
According to a report in the Orlando Sentinel, Zimmerman told police that he lost sight of Martin and was returning to his SUV when the teen approached him. The two exchanged words, according to Zimmerman, who said Martin then punched him in the nose. Zimmerman said he was repeatedly punched and had his head slammed into the sidewalk, according to the Sentinel. He began yelling, he told police, before shooting in self-defense.
Zimmerman was charged with second-degree murder on April 11.
Did prosecutors make the right decision? What do you think of the controversy? Were you moved to participate in rallies about the issue – and if so, why? Share a short video or a text commentary with iReport.
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