Trayvon Martin Rally Sets Emotional Tone In New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A crowd of hundreds sang gospel hymns, clapping and swaying with hands outstretched, at the opening of a rally in New Orleans one week after a jury found George Zimmerman not guilty in the death of unarmed teenager Trayvon Martin.

In a city plagued by violence, the death of Martin and subsequent acquittal of Zimmerman, hit an emotional chord. The city was one of 100 across the country that hosted rallies Saturday organized by Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network.

Standing on the steps of the federal courthouse, some found comfort in song.

A number of young black males held signs that read: "I am Trayvon Martin" and "Am I Next?"

Among the speakers was former New Orleans Mayor Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League.