Justice for Trayvon: Chaka Khan Boycotts Florida

By: Amanda Anderson-Niles

George Zimmerman might have been found not guilty for the murder of unarmed black teenager Trayvon Martin, but people have not given up on their quest for justice for Trayvon. In fact, the movement has only intensified as people continue to protest and boycott all over the country. In particular, some celebrities are getting involved in the fight, with stars such as Beyonce and Jay Z showing up to rallies and giving support to Trayvon’s family members. But now that people are committing to boycotting the state of Florida and it’s very controversial Stand Your Ground law, some celebrities have decided that’s the best way to make their voices heard. Stevie Wonder and gospel group Mary Mary have committed to the boycott movement, and now it appears the legendary Chaka Khan is joining in. She recently told the Huffington Post she won’t be performing in Florida again until something is finally done:

“Well the trial, number one was a travesty. Racism is still very much alive and well in this country. It has gone to more of a cerebral state. But it’s alive and well. The new slavery is keeping black men in jail.

“Well I am boycotting Florida. I had a booking there last week and I cancelled it. But if any tribute comes up I’ll do it. Absolutely.”

The Huffington Post journo tried to be slick and of course used the same tactic Zimmerman’s supporters love to employ to change the subject and asked Chaka if she was just as involved in the fight to end black on black crime in Chicago. The diva confirmed she is also working hard to bring aide to Chicago as well:

“It’s insane. These kids are using gangs as a rite of passage. If we were still living in villages it would be very different. But it’s like a pseudo rite of passage, which is very sad. As a matter of fact I’m going to be over at Jesse Jackson’s place on Saturday morning. We’re having a rally addressing the violence in Chicago.”