As demonstrators gathered to protest George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis, one individual wore a mask emblazoned with the words “I CAN’T BREATHE.” This moment echoed a previous tragedy. Four years ago, when Marcus Thompson was fatally shot by police while sitting in his car, I thought, “This has to be the turning point.” How could America continue to deny the existence of systemic racism and police violence when an innocent man lost his life for merely existing? His girlfriend recorded the incident, and his young daughter was in the backseat. Surely, this had to be the catalyst for change. If not now, when?
Yet, that moment passed without accountability. The officer who shot him was acquitted, and America remained oblivious.
Now, we find ourselves in the wake of George Floyd’s death. True, there have been countless victims in between, but the narrative remains unchanged. How much more clarity is needed to understand the deep-rooted issue of racism in America? This time feels different. I see you—people are speaking out and taking action across the nation. Would this have happened without the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic? Without the double burden on Black communities—battling both the virus and systemic oppression? With so many people at home, absorbing the harsh realities of injustice? The current administration’s blatant incompetence, rejecting essential resources and boasting on social media, adds another layer to this moment. Historians will analyze this connection, but it’s challenging to reconcile the series of traumas impacting my community.
Yes, it’s been a tough year. But beyond the struggles, there have been remarkable acts of human kindness. Amid the pandemic and social upheaval, we’ve witnessed extraordinary compassion—the nurses, teachers, doctors, scientists, and small business owners in Minneapolis standing in solidarity with protesters. Individuals sewing masks, and those risking their safety to provide water in the face of violence.
While white supremacists attempt to sow division, they underestimate our unity. They believe we won’t differentiate between justice and vengeance, or love and hate. Yet, love prevails. Since mid-March, we’ve demonstrated that love conquers all.
Finally, you’re beginning to see the truth as George Floyd gasped for his mother. You remember the names of those who came before him: Marcus Thompson, Oscar Grant, Sandra Bland, and Tamir Rice. You may have shaken your head in disbelief or taken action by making calls or writing letters. Perhaps you thought, “It’s tragic, but they should have…” Yet, George Floyd’s cries for his mother and the indifference of his killers were impossible to ignore.
What’s happening in our streets now isn’t just rioting; it’s an uprising. This isn’t a polite echo of the past. The People are demanding overdue reparations for centuries of oppression. The prosperity enjoyed today is built on the legacy of those whose ancestors fought for their lives just steps away.
So, as distressing as images of shattered glass and boarded businesses may be, consider what response is fitting for 400 years of brutality. Remember: while material possessions can be restored, human lives cannot. Reflect on the tragic toll that racism has taken.
Hold on. Regardless of your feelings about the unrest, there’s no turning back. Transformative change is overdue. The revolution is being broadcasted right now. So, let’s look out for one another. Lead with love, but also with a commitment to justice and equality. Be outspoken in your anti-racism efforts and support organizations actively dismantling white supremacy.
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In summary, George Floyd’s tragedy ignited a powerful movement for justice and recognition of systemic racism in America. As we witness uprisings and acts of compassion, it’s clear that change is imminent. We must support each other in this fight for equity and justice.
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