Police Killings Rise Nationwide Since George Floyd Murder

Five years after George Floyd's murder by a Minneapolis police officer, police killings in the U.S. continue to rise annually, with Black Americans disproportionately affected, despite widespread protests and reforms inspired by Floyd's death. A new documentary, "612: Darkness in the Land of Nice," highlights the ongoing efforts in Minneapolis and the Twin Cities by youth activists and community projects aiming to foster positive change and healing. Floyd’s family, including his cousin Shareeduh McGee, remain committed to advancing justice and education, even as political shifts threaten to roll back reforms and calls emerge for the pardoning of Derek Chauvin, Floyd's killer. Meanwhile, the area around George Floyd Square has seen mixed economic impacts, with some businesses struggling while residents report growing feelings of safety and community resilience. Youth activists emphasize the transformation of grief into empowerment as part of the local response to Floyd’s death. The collective narrative reveals both persistent challenges in policing and hopeful grassroots movements seeking systemic change and community renewal.