“Reflecting on George Floyd’s Death Anniversary: Examining Progress and Challenges in Addressing Police Brutality”

George Floyd Death Anniversary: Reckoning With Police Violence In Limbo

The murder of George Floyd sparked protests around the world and was seen by many as a catalyst for a nationwide reckoning on racism in policing. However, despite the demands for change, the deadly effects of the coronavirus pandemic, economic uncertainty, and a divisive U.S. presidential election hampered the efforts to effect major police reforms in 2020 and beyond. As we mark the third anniversary of Floyd’s murder, this report provides a brief retrospect on the progress made so far in Minneapolis and the federal level, the challenges faced, and recommendations for meaningful change.

Progress:

Minneapolis has made some significant progress in tackling police violence since Floyd’s murder. Some policy changes include bans on chokeholds and neck restraints, requirements for police to intervene when fellow officers are using improper force, among others. At the state level, Minnesota has also approved police accountability packages and passed legislation restricting no-knock warrants. These changes are critical, but more work is needed to transform policing in Minneapolis, given the trust deficit between the police department and the black community.

Challenges:

Despite the activists and elected officials’ tireless efforts, progress remains slow, and law enforcement agencies’ culture continues to resist reform. For instance, although there were immediate calls to defund the police and invest in public housing, infrastructure, and mental health services, a ballot measure to this effect failed even in heavily black neighborhoods. Similarly, although Minneapolis has agreed to pay millions of dollars in settlements to those who allege excessive police force during unrest that followed Floyd’s killing, few police officers faced disciplinary action.

Recommendations:

Real change can only happen through systemic and institutional reform of policing. While progress has been slow, we must not relent in the push for police reform. Activists and elected officials need to redouble their efforts to get the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act passed, which will ban chokeholds and no-knock warrants, create a database listing officers’ gross misconduct, among other measures. The federal government should also push for ending qualified immunity protections for law enforcement, thus making it easier to hold police officers accountable for their actions.

Editorial:

The time for meaningful police reform and racial reckoning through actions is long overdue. It is untenable that in the 21st century, blacks in America still face police brutality and suffer from institutionalized racism. Police officers are supposed to be the protectors of all citizens, and their actions should reflect that, regardless of race or ethnicity. It is essential to push for police reforms that increase transparency and accountability, reduce the use of force, and enhance community policing.

Advice:

In light of George Floyd’s tragic death, and with activism and mobilization across the country, we must seize the moment and push for lasting police reform. Relevant authorities, law enforcement agencies, and elected officials must boldly act to dismantle systemic racism and root out discriminatory practices. Citizens can do their part by holding their local governments accountable and by pushing for more meaningful change, such as the banning of racial profiling, supporting police oversight boards, and expanding the resources allocated to mental health services. Every individual should have peaceful and equal treatment from law enforcement, regardless of the color of their skin.