Michael Brown Sr. Urges Peace Ahead of Grand Jury Decision

In a new online video, Michael Brown Sr. calls for peace ahead of a grand jury’s decision whether or not to charge the police officer who fatally shot Brown’s unarmed son.

In the video produced by activist group STL Forward, Brown thanks those who have protested police intimidation and racial profiling in the St. Louis, Missouri area following his son’s death, but goes on to say, “Hurting others or destroying property is not the answer.”

“No matter what the grand jury decides,” he continues, “I do not want my son’s death to be in vain. I want it to lead to incredible change.”

Brown’s son, Michael Jr., was shot by Ferguson, Missouri police officer Darren Wilson following an altercation on August 9. Eyewitness and police accounts about what happened differ greatly, and the incident has sparked numerous protests, some of which resulted in riots and looting.

On Monday, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency and requested the presence of the National Guard. Nixon has said the purpose of having troops on standby is to protect the rights of peaceful protestors, but many see the decision as a threat and an overreaction.

The grand jury’s decision is expected soon.