Dozens gather in downtown Milw. for Trayvon Martin rally

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Public outcry following last week's verdict in the George Zimmerman trial continues closer to home as rallies are held in Milwaukee and surrounding areas.

"Justice for Trayvon would be to look at the case again, taking a different perspective," said volunteer Gerardo Alvarado.

Those who disagree with the not guilty verdict are circulating petitions in front of the federal courthouse in downtown Milwaukee hoping for a civil suit to be filed in the case.

"What we're really trying to do is get the Department of Justice to file civil rights charges against Zimmerman," explained another voluneer.

14-year-old Rafael Diez hopes the youth of Milwaukee never forget what happened to Trayvon Martin. Diez organized a sign-making gathering at Arrow Park with the Youth Empowered in the Struggle group.

"We're willing to spend out Saturday and summertime to be a part of something that is bigger than us," said Diez. "That's where the youth shine. That's where we can pull out the numbers."

Many of the signs urged lawmakers in Florida and other states to repeal "stand your ground laws" and end racial profiling. Crowds in the streets try to find comfort in the fact that Trayvon Martin has inspired a movement.

"Even though we come from different backgrounds and neighborhoods, we're all together and we all connect to each other," added Diez.

The rally in front of the courthouse on Saturday, July 20th, got so large that Milwaukee police shut down part of E. Wisconsin Ave.