Rise and Remember; 4 years later the community gathers to remember George Floyd

MINNEAPOLIS — Saturday marks four years since the death of George Floyd — a moment that forever changed Minnesota and sparked a movement for change around the world.

Floyd died after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin kneeled on his neck. His death sparked weeks of unrest as protesters clashed with police, as buildings were set on fire and stores were looted.

A jury convicted Chauvin of murder.

Four years later and George Floyd Square is a space for community to reflect and remember at the street corner that will be forever linked to Floyd’s death, but also the movement that came after it. 

Four years later and George Floyd Square is a space for community to reflect and remember at the street corner that will be forever linked to Floyd’s death, but also the movement that came after it.

On Saturday the Rise and Remember celebration was held at George Floyd Square at 38th and Chicago in Minneapolis. Organizers say they wanted to have a safe space for people to be together, reflect and take care of each other.

Jeanelle Austin is the executive director and says this year’s remembrance was all about self-care. From receiving free services, bodywork to meditation and art it’s all about wellness.

“Loving each other and pouring into each other and pouring into ourselves to reset is important for the longevity of wellness and wellbeing in the fight for justice,” Austin said.

“This year feels lighter — it feels like healing has begun for me,” said Munira Maalim Isaq. “We have a space where we are heard — when we have a plan and feeling like we will never see another brother be lynched to death right in front of us.”

A space for grieving and healing for Floyd’s family and a community pushing for change.

George Floyd’s family was also in attendance — leading a candle light vigil Saturday night. 

The family have been in Washington D.C. this past week, working with House Democrats to reintroduce the “George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.”

The bill would create federal police reform. It was originally introduced in 2021 and passed in the House but didn’t pass in the Senate. 

Plans are already in the works for next year’s remembrance event. Until then organizers hope there is movement on a federal police reform bill in the name of George Floyd.