Protesters Rally For Justice Reform In Utica

Last night on Genesee Street members of Occupy Utica and other community action groups held a rally for justice reform to protest the verdict in the George Zimmerman trial and the "stand your ground law" that help lead to Zimmerman's acquittal.The rally was held between 4and 6 p.m. last night and organized by members of Central NY Citizens in Action, Occupy Utica, Organizing for Action, Central New York MoveOn Council, and other community, civic and faith-based groups.

Rally organizers said the purpose of the rally was to prevent future future tragedies by promoting constructive dialogue, peace, harmony, justice, multicultural understanding and unity. The organizers are also advocating for the United States Department of Justice to consider filing criminal civil rights charges in the Zimmerman case.

Community activist Diane Berry said though New York doesn't have the stand your ground law, it is important that they make people aware of what it can mean.