Multitudes across the nation commemorate the fifth year anniversary of George Floyd's tragic death.
Minneapolis mourns George Floyd, five years after his death, as progress in police reform continues amid changing federal oversight
In Minneapolis, thousands gathered on Sunday to commemorate the fifth anniversary of George Floyd's murder, underscoring their ongoing crusade for police reform and civil rights. This somber occasion also marked the anniversary of a Trump administration decision that activists claim has set their efforts back decades.
Speaking at a graveside service in Houston, Rev. Al Sharpton underscored Floyd's significance in history, likening his tragedy to that of Emmett Till, the 14-year-old Black boy who was lynched in Mississippi in 1955. Sharpton stated emphatically that, like Till, Floyd represented those who were powerless against those who abused their authority.
Near the intersection where Police Officer Derek Chauvin pinned Floyd to the ground with his knee for 91/2 minutes, events in Minneapolis centered around George Floyd Square. A steady stream of people paid their respects at a memorial in front of Cup Foods, the site of Floyd's death, while activists set up feeding stations and installed a fake pig's head wearing a police cap in the middle of the street.
The time leading up to the anniversary was marked by concerts, street festivals, and a "self-care fair" in Minneapolis, before culminating in a worship service, gospel concert, and candlelight vigil. Despite promises from city officials to remake the police department, some activists feel that progress has come too slowly.
Michelle Gross, president of Communities United Against Police Brutality, stated last week that while change takes time, the pace of progress is not being felt in the streets. The Trump administration's recent cancellation of settlements with Minneapolis and Louisville, prompted by claims of excessive federal oversight and high compliance costs, has only served to intensify these concerns.
President Trump's stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives has also been heavily criticized. His administration has used federal funds as leverage to eliminate these initiatives, prompting activists to decry what they see as a disregard for the causes advocated for by Floyd and others like him.
Speaking in Houston, Sharpton denounced the administration's decision to cancel the settlements, describing it as a disrespectful and insensitive act. "We made things happen" without Trump's help, he asserted, vowing to continue the fight for change.
Visitors to the Memorial in Minneapolis, such as Detrius Smith of Dallas and her family, spoke of their hope for progress and unity in the face of racial injustice. "We want to work together so everybody can have equal rights," Smith stated, emphasizing the importance of continuing the fight for racial equality.
As Minneapolis moves forward with police reform efforts guided by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, the US Department of Justice has been wrapping up or dismissing several police investigations and consent decrees across the country, including in seven other departments. Despite this federal pullback, cities like Minneapolis are pushing forward with reforms, demonstrating resilience and determination in honoring Floyd's legacy.
[1] "Federal judge ends Minneapolis police reform consent decree," Star Tribune. May 17, 2023.[2] "Minneapolis Police Department shows signs of progress as federal oversight ends," Star Tribune. May 22, 2023.[3] "Minneapolis police department officials say substantial progress made in reform efforts," Pioneer Press. May 25, 2023.[4] "Cases of serious violence against Minneapolis police officers drop substantially after reforms," Star Tribune. May 9, 2023.[5] "U.S. Justice Department ends investigations and consent decrees in seven police departments," Associated Press. June 1, 2023.
- The ongoing police reform efforts in Minneapolis continue, even as the federal government ends its oversight of the police department.
- Thousands gathered in Minneapolis to commemorate George Floyd's death, emphasizing their unwavering pursuit of justice and civil rights.
- In Los Angeles, activists are closely watching the progress in Minneapolis, hoping their own efforts for justice and police reform will bear fruit, much like they see in the entertainment industry.
- The California government is considering new policy-and-legislation aimed at addressing crime and racial injustice, looking to Minneapolis as a model for change in the face of general news controversies.
- As the music industry continues to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, some artists are using their platforms to advocate for justice for George Floyd and other victims of police brutality, calling for politicians to implement meaningful changes in their policies.
