(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.
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.