The members of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus (FLBC) will continue to keep Mr. George Floyd’s family in prayer during this pivotal moment in history. We reflect upon the world watching the tragic murder of Mr. Floyd, as he took his last breath after 9 minutes and 29 seconds under the knee of former police officer, Derek Chauvin. We are extremely grateful for the 12 jurors who convicted Derek Chauvin and join the world in affirming the guilty verdict.
“While we mourn the loss of life, we must hold public servants, especially law enforcement officers accountable. All of the countless lives lost at the hands of police brutality would not have been amplified without social media and protest. Across the country and even here in Florida, despite the enactment of HB1, we will continue to march the streets and make our voices heard whenever acts of social injustice incur,” said FLBC Chairman State Senator Bobby Powell, Jr.
We must continue to address systemic racism in this country and push for real reforms. The passing of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act at the federal level is a must. It is vital for law enforcement officers to be held accountable for their actions and reinvent our public safety system to protect the civil and human rights of all people, especially Black and Brown persons.