Today (May 25) marks the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death — a brutal murder that was recorded for the world to see and spurred months of global protests, nationwide anguish and ongoing police reform initiatives. Floyd’s life and legacy will be celebrated today with a block party in his Houston neighborhood and marches and events across the country.
Speaking with USA Today, Floyd’s family reflected on the difficult year they’ve faced since his killing.
“To everybody else, this was a case and a cause,” Philonise Floyd, his brother, said. “But to me, that was my big brother.”
LaTonya Floyd, his sister, told the outlet she keeps a newspaper with Derek Chauvin’s face on it in the center console of her SUV. Facing her brother’s murderer has helped her cope with his death, she said.
“He gave me a reason to keep breathing,” she said. “I need to know why: What possessed you to kill my brother? Otherwise, I’d be in a mental hospital right now.”
“It’s been a year that’s ripped my heart out,” she added.
Chauvin was found guilty of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in Floyd’s death last month. He is still awaiting sentencing, which is set for June 25.
Many on Twitter reflected on Floyd’s impact on police reform, while others remembered him as a brother, friend and father.
“On this day in history a man named #GeorgeFloyd died before our eyes begging for breath under the knee of a police officer. The world heard his plea and took to the streets,” one person tweeted. “He re-ignited the civil rights movement. [His] family is still pushing for lasting change in the law.”
“He was not just a victim. His death was not just a catalyst for activism and protests. #GeorgeFloyd was a man,” another tweeted. “A father. A brother. A friend. His life mattered. Sending love & light to his family and loved ones today.”
As reported by REVOLT, President Biden is expected to invite Floyd’s family to the White House later today. The POTUS previously pushed for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to be passed by the anniversary of his death. However, it was delayed as some provisions continue to be debated.
See social media tributes to George Floyd below.