George Floyd’s family fights for sacred ground where he took his last breath: ‘That’s my blood’

Roger Floyd and Thomas McLaurin recently visited the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, where George Floyd, their nephew and cousin, was tragically killed by a police officer in 2020. Despite the passage of four years, the area remains cordoned off by concrete barriers, with a memorial featuring a mural of George Floyd standing behind them. The two men expressed a mix of emotions, from sadness to peace, as they reflected on the impact of Floyd’s death and the global movement it sparked.

As discussions continue about the future of the square, some want it to be preserved as a historic site commemorating Floyd’s legacy and the fight for racial justice. While city council members lean towards creating a pedestrian plaza with a memorial and shops, the mayor and local business owners prefer a more flexible plan that includes increased vehicular traffic and bus routes. The debate highlights the challenge American cities face in balancing remembrance with progress following tragedies.

For some, like Dwight Alexander, a local business owner, the lack of traffic and energy in the area since Floyd’s death has had a negative impact on businesses. However, others see the closure of the street as a necessary step for collective grieving and reflection on systemic issues of police violence. The complex dynamics surrounding the square underscore the ongoing struggle to find a path forward that respects the past while embracing change.