Listen Live
Fantastic Voyage Generic Graphics Updated Nov 2023
Black America Web Featured Video
CLOSE

On Friday, The Smithsonian denied reports that it was trying to acquire the hoodie that Trayvon Martin had on the night he was shot and killed by George Zimmerman, who was acquitted last month.

There were reports last week that the director of the planned National Museum of African American History and Culture had taken interest in the hoodie.

“It became the symbolic way to talk about the Trayvon Martin case. It’s rare that you get one artifact that really becomes the symbol,” Lonnie Bunch told the Washington Post. “Because it’s such a symbol, it would allow you to talk about race in the age of Obama.”

After people responded via Twitter to the possible acquisition, the African American History tweeted this blanket response: “Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this issue. We know there are many opinions and will take them into consideration.”

The Smithsonian tweeted the institution was not “currently seeking” the hoodie for it’s collection and while “items related to the Zimmerman trial may one day have historical value, acquiring any object involves a lengthy process” if they become available.

According to an ABC report, the hoodie will serve as evidence at the U.S. Department of Justice as the civil suits play out. Then it will be returned to Sanford, Fla., to allow Martin’s family the chance to claim it.

Hoodies have become a symbol of solidarity with Martin, 17, and were worn at rallies, church services and by senators and celebrities.

Remembering Trayvon Martin On His 21st Birthday
0 photos