(The Root) — As the George Zimmerman trial comes to a close, people on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are replacing their profile pictures with black boxes to show solidarity for Trayvon Martin and his family.
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It's something that people on social media often do, and it has sparked a debate over the point of such online gestures. Many argue that there is no point — a graphic in your profile (or, in this case, the lack thereof) won't sway the outcome of an important court case. Others say that swaying the outcome isn't the point; rather, it's pooling positive energy and making a personal statement to let people know where you stand.
This Trayvon Martin #Blackout Is very moving and touching. It maybe small but its still good to see people still supporting n not forgetting
— Shawn Stewart (@TreatWomenRight) July 12, 2013
Tracy Clayton is a writer, humorist and blogger from Louisville, Ky.
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