The conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin

The conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for the 2020 killing of George Floyd is an indication that the police brutality and violence that has plagued our nation will no longer stand, and the blatant disregard of Black lives and people of color will no longer be tolerated. Today’s verdict offers a moment of respite and hope, yet we know that much more needs to be done to ensure that no more lives are lost as tragically, senselessly, and unjustly as George Floyd. In too many communities across the country, the trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve is often frayed and in some areas is broken. We have been and continue to be challenged by the daily trauma of excessive police force, racial violence, and brutality in our communities.  Our hearts and prayers remain with the family of George Floyd as they continue to grieve the loss of their father, husband, brother, and friend, and with all those who have suffered the loss of their loved ones as a result of police violence.