Cyrus Belton was 14 years old. He was shot. The man who killed him was acquitted.
For many Black Americans, the acquittal in this case reopened wounds that stretch across generations and raised painful questions about justice, accountability, and the value placed on Black life.
From Trayvon Martin to Tamir Rice, the names change, but the questions remain.
Last week, Karmelo Anthony, a Black teenager who was bullied, was convicted not of manslaughter but first degree murder. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison.
Many are left asking what these vastly different outcomes reveal about accountability, race, and the way justice is experienced in America.
We mourn Cyrus, stand with his family and loved ones, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing pursuit of justice and healing.