Washington –Yesterday, a California Superior Court judge confirmed that a jury was unable to reach a verdict in the murder trial of Brandon McInerney, who is accused of shooting his gay classmate, Lawrence King, in 2008.  Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign, issued the following statement:

“It is disappointing that the criminal justice system has failed to bring closure to the family, friends and community that loved Lawrence.  In the wake of the mistrial, and in honor of Lawrence, we will continue our efforts to prevent these types of tragedies by working with school districts across our nation to stamp out the ignorance and prejudice that led to Lawrence’s death.  It’s up to the adults around children to call out that early behavior and prejudice, and to explain that the differences among us are part of what makes us strong: that being different is not something to attack, but to appreciate.  If Lawrence or Brandon had lived in that world, their lives might not have collided in tragedy and death.”

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.