Today, a jury in Minneapolis, Minnesota, found former police officer Derek Chauvin guilty of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. For some, this verdict brings relief, feeling that justice was given to Mr. Floyd and his family and to others who have experienced similar acts of discrimination, harm and injustice. For others, this verdict may do little to assuage the hurt, pain and fear for themselves and their loved ones.
In the past year, the death of Mr. Floyd and many others have illuminated our nation’s ongoing struggle with inequity, systemic racism and the state of policing in our communities. Though frustration and weariness abound and progress seems fitful and slow, the work toward equity and accountability must continue. There is still much to do to live up to our aspiration of justice for all.
In the coming days, you will hear more about how this community is responding to and joining the effort to help address inequity, racism and the oppression of people of color. I invite you to participate in the various opportunities that will be offered across the University. Should it be helpful to process this case and recent events with others in the community, I hope you will reach out to those in the Counseling Center, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the Office of Civic and Community Engagement and the Intercultural Center.
At Wake Forest, we are called to be people for humanity. For all humanity. That means that we honor the intrinsic value of each individual and show compassion and empathy toward one another. This is not a hollow charge to those who consider this community home nor should it be an empty promise to the communities we serve.
