The changes promised after George Floyd’s murder haven’t been delivered

Five years ago, the world witnessed a video showing a man, George Floyd, pleading for his life as a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck, causing his death. Floyd’s tragic murder shed light on the reality of systemic police brutality against Black people, a truth that has been ignored for too long. The justice system failed to hold the responsible officers accountable, with President Donald Trump hindering efforts for justice and reform.

Despite the widespread outrage and promises of change following Floyd’s death, progress has been slow and insufficient. While some states and cities have implemented reforms, the federal government has not taken the necessary steps to address systemic issues in policing. The failure to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and the shutdown of the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database have hindered accountability and transparency in law enforcement.

The lack of action and accountability in the five years since Floyd’s murder reflects a broader failure in American leadership and policy. Meaningful reform, such as ending qualified immunity and investing in Black communities, is essential to address systemic racism and prevent further injustices. The NAACP continues to advocate for change, emphasizing the importance of protecting Black lives and ensuring justice for victims of police violence.

The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a deeper societal problem. As the nation marks the fifth anniversary of Floyd’s death, it is crucial to recognize that Black lives matter in all aspects of society and to take concrete actions to address systemic injustice and inequality.