Global Protests Demand Police Reform After George Floyd Killing

The global protests following George Floyd's murder in 2020 sparked widespread calls for police reform and racial equality, with demonstrations taking place internationally and featuring symbolic acts such as kneeling and moments of silence reflecting Floyd's final moments. In Minneapolis, efforts to preserve the history and memory of Floyd and the movement have taken various forms, including a mobile studio project recording personal stories about the unrest and its impact, as well as artistic initiatives like the Memorialize the Movement, which has archived over 1,000 protest murals to maintain the legacy of the uprising. Community-driven tributes have also played a key role, exemplified by a tribute wall created alongside the Schomburg Center in Harlem, collecting flowers, artwork, and messages honoring Floyd and other victims of police brutality. As the fifth anniversary of Floyd's death approaches, numerous commemorations are planned, including exhibitions, a day of remembrance, and events blending both the pain of loss and the resilience of the movement, such as the “Justice for George” festival emphasizing both grief and radical joy. These diverse activities underscore the ongoing significance of Floyd's death as a catalyst for societal reflection and activism, while preserving the voices and artistic expressions born from the protests. The varied initiatives reflect a commitment to ensuring that future generations can learn from this pivotal moment in history.