George Floyd, 1973-2020
Five years ago today, George Floyd was murdered on the streets of Minneapolis, Minnesota by a white police officer.
I’d like to think things have gotten better since his tragic death, and in some ways, there may be more awareness in police departments around the country. But racism is certainly not gone, far from it. Through his words and action, Trump has given permission to his base to hate based on skin color. He instructs his administration to persecute, arrest and detain people primarily based on the color of their skin. He embarasses our nation in front of the President of South Africa, calling his country racist against whites, when it is a complete and utter fabrication. He seeks to stoke hate and fear.
All we can do as citizens is not forget people like Mr. FLoyd and all the others who have died because of racism, recently, and in the history of our country. We are not perfect, we are a work in progress. If you feel safe to do so, go protest on June 14th in a city or town near you. For more information, go to Indivisible.org to find out where the nearest gatherings are near you.
Thanks for being here, see you tomorrow.
Yes, I agree. We have to get into the streets. No Kings Day June 14. George Lopez of NYT did The Morning newsletter this week about what has changed and mostly NOT changed in the 5 years since the murder of George Floyd. It was a good synopsis to let people know that the reality policing and stats are about the same. And they did an article today about how part of what is happening is racism backlash due to Black Lives Matter protests. We are a racist nation. Very sad.
Sad truth. We judge a book by its cover. We judge a man by his color. But under the skin of each human kin lies a heart, a history, and hope.