On May 28, 2016, a 4 year-old boy who fell 15-feet into a gorilla exhibit in moat in Cincinnati Zoo unfortunately resulted in the death of a 17-year-old silverback gorilla by the name of Harambe. Swift action was taken by the staff of Cincinnati Zoo to kill the gorilla to avoid the high potential of the young boy being killed by the animal.

The parents, Michelle Gregg and Deonne Dickerson have been under heavy criticism since the death of the gorilla. The parents have been called everything from negligent to inhumane names that need not be mentioned, but are definitely undeserving.

The fathers criminal history has became a factor, although clearly unrelated, but however has been used as an attempt to attack his character as a parent. While Mr. Gregg's rap sheet doesn't speak highly of his past behavior he has definitely made complete a turn around in his lifestyle - going from a menace to society to a productive citizen of his community, a positive example for his children, a loving & supportive partner to his significant other, and a provider for his family.

The death of an innocent animal who appeared at some points to protect the child but other times jeopardize the life of the child is unfortunate. But for countless people to imply that the death of the child would have been justified because two loving parents made a mistake (like many other parents have done resulting in the same situation) is disgusting and inhumane. Both parents have no past history of child neglect, so the question if rather or not they are fit parents is not appropriate.

We the people in support of both Deonne Dickerson & Michelle Gregg are asking that you please not consider filing any charges against the parents and/or consider removing the child (including the rest of their children) from their custody. The actions taken by the zoo were justified and in compliance with protocol in the event unfortunate situations like this occur.

Please sign this petition to show your support for the Cincinnati Zoo decision to save a life of a young innocent boy in spite of two loving parents mistake while on a family outing...it could have happened to any parent. NO PARENT IS PERFECT.