On the fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s death, Americans nationwide honor his memory with events across the nation, particularly in his hometown of Houston and the city where he tragically lost his life—Minneapolis. Floyd, a black man, was murdered by police officer Derek Chauvin in 2020, igniting widespread protests against systemic racism and police violence.
This Sunday, Floyd’s family commemorated the occasion at a gathering near his gravesite in Houston, presided over by Rev. Al Sharpton. Meanwhile, Minneapolis organized a series of events, including church services and a musical concert, during the annual Rise and Remember Festival at George Floyd Square, which memorializes the site of his murder.
Although Floyd’s death led to what many viewed as a pivotal moment in addressing racial injustice, recent developments, including former President Donald Trump’s rollback of police reforms, raise concerns about the future of these reforms. Thousands assembled in Minneapolis to advocate for sustained change, with activists emphasizing the need to carry on the momentum sparked by Floyd’s death.
Rev. Sharpton remarked that while progress has been made through the conviction of Chauvin, much work remains. Calls for ongoing accountability and reform continue, particularly as various local law enforcement investigations have shown deep-rooted issues.
Despite pushback from the Trump administration regarding federal oversight of police practices, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey affirmed the city’s commitment to upholding the recent consent decree aimed at reform. As discussions about racial equity persist, the legacy of George Floyd remains a catalyst for change and a reminder of the work that lies ahead.
Source: www.bbc.com
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