Yesterday former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger was sentenced to 10 years after having been found guilty and convicted of the murder of Botham Jean.
NAACP President Aubrey Hooper said in a statement that the organization saw the sentence as inadequate, but prayed that Jean's family could find some closure with the conviction.
While protests took place outside the courtroom by people who also thought the sentence was too lenient, inside something entirely different was happening.
"I don't even want you to go to jail, I want the best for you. Because I know that's exactly Botham would want you to do." These were the words of Jean's brother, 18-year-old Brandt. Who later asked the judge for permission to hug his brother's killer.
Jean's father, Bertrum, told CNN that while he wishes Guyger's sentence would have been stiffer, he accepts the jury's decision.
"I felt the same way as Brandt. I wish I could've extended that same courtesy," he said. "That's what Christ would want us to do. ... If you will not forgive, neither will your Father forgive you. I don't want to see her rot in hell. I don't want to see her rot in prison. I hope this will help her to change and recognize the damage, the hurt that our family's going through. So I wish her well and I will pray for her family and pray for her as well."
It was so moving watch the hug. The members of the court cried, the judge did too.
The moment sparked conversations of forgiveness nationwide.
What are your thoughts?