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I never anticipated witnessing a white police officer being held accountable for the death of a Black individual. Reflecting on 2014, I recall the officer responsible for Eric Garner’s death escaping indictment, despite an autopsy confirming he died from choking. Over the nearly seven years since, we’ve repeatedly seen white officers kill Black people without facing consequences. One of the officers involved in Breonna Taylor’s death is not only free, but has also secured a book deal. Hence, the mere fact that Derek Chauvin was convicted doesn’t guarantee a shift in how white police officers are treated under the law.
This verdict does not equate to justice for George Floyd. His death was significant, not because he was the first Black man killed by law enforcement, but because it sparked a worldwide outcry. Perhaps it was the pandemic that kept us glued to our screens, or maybe it was the haunting visual of his last moments that captured the world’s attention in a way previous incidents had not. Floyd’s tragic death propelled the Black Lives Matter movement onto the global stage, uniting people worldwide in solidarity with the Black community. For a few weeks last summer, amid a pandemic, millions took to the streets, amplifying Black voices and advocating for the dismantling of systemic racism.
However, for many in the Black community, Floyd’s murder represented yet another instance of profound loss. We braced ourselves as the graphic footage circulated endlessly. Our hearts broke anew hearing him cry out for his mother. This time, the world seemed to listen, acknowledging our humanity and the need for our men to grow old. People began to recognize the individuals behind the hashtags, and the phrase “Black Lives Matter” resonated more deeply than ever.
As protests erupted globally, millions marched, chanting and carrying signs demanding justice. Yet, they faced a violent backlash from police forces equipped with riot gear, tear gas, and rubber bullets. It was a stark reminder of the reality that those advocating against police brutality were often met with police aggression.
While we fought for George Floyd, the pandemic disproportionately affected our community. Black individuals faced higher mortality rates from COVID-19, amplifying the risks of protesting. As we marched, masks adorned with “Black Lives Matter” took on a dual meaning.
The verdict in Chauvin’s trial represented a rare instance of accountability for a white officer killing a Black person, but it is crucial to recognize that this verdict does not equate to justice for George Floyd. True justice would mean George Floyd would still be alive today. Justice would mean his daughter would have her father. Thus, while the verdict signifies a step towards accountability, it is not what we can consider justice.
Regrettably, Chauvin’s conviction doesn’t indicate a systemic change. I’m skeptical; it seemed inevitable they had to find him guilty to prevent further civil unrest similar to that of summer 2020. Chauvin is guilty and should face the consequences, but he is also a scapegoat, a necessary sacrifice amidst public outcry. Some may view this as a victory, but it’s essential to remain vigilant and not fall into complacency.
Just a week prior, a 20-year-old Black man was shot by police who claimed to have mistaken their taser for a firearm. Days after, a 13-year-old boy was also killed by law enforcement. And as we awaited the Chauvin verdict, police in Columbus, Ohio, took the life of a 16-year-old girl, highlighting the ongoing violence.
While the officer who killed Daunte Wright was charged with manslaughter, it’s crucial to note the proximity of this case to Floyd’s. The public scrutiny surrounding these incidents influences how authorities respond, but it should not have taken Floyd’s killing to prompt such awareness. Floyd’s story is not unique; he shares the same tragic fate as others like Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, and Breonna Taylor, whose killers remain free.
George Floyd is not a martyr; he didn’t sacrifice his life to illuminate racial issues in this country. He is a man who would still be alive if genuine justice existed. We shouldn’t be grateful for his death that led to one officer’s accountability.
While I appreciate the jurors’ decision, my heart is heavy with the memories of Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, and countless others whose lives were lost to police violence. They mattered as much as George Floyd, and I will continue to remember their names.
This struggle transcends individual cases; we must dismantle a system that perpetuates injustice and build a more equitable society that respects Black humanity. No longer should we have to plead for our basic rights.
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