FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2021
CONTACT:
Erica Nash-Thomas
202.263.2812
media@cbcfinc.org
WASHINGTON—Tonya Veasey, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) released the following statement on the jury decision on the murder of George Floyd by Derek Chauvin.
“The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation is encouraged that George Floyd and his surviving family have found some measure of justice today, as a Minnesota jury reached a guilty verdict of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for Derek Chauvin in the murder of Mr. Floyd.
Our thoughts continue to be with the Floyd Family as they mourn the loss of their loved one. We grieve collectively with them, the citizens of Minneapolis, and the millions who worked tirelessly throughout the last year to demand justice for this tragedy. This verdict sends a strong message about the power and value of collective action and civic engagement. It demonstrates that justice and accountability are possible.
Today’s verdict is a step in the right direction for ending disparities in consequences within our justice system. But it is only a step. We acknowledge the countless lives lost where justice was not served, and we know that much work remains to reform the systems of injustice in the United States that lead to tragedies like Mr. Floyd’s murder. It is evident that the pursuit of justice and civil rights is a continued mission to which we must remain committed. We are steadfast and devoted to our mission to advance the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public.”
CBCF is deeply committed to racial equity and social justice through the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice (NREI). To receive updates on CBCF news, research, programs and events, subscribe to receive the e-newsletter and follow @CBCFinc on Twitter and Instagram.
About the CBCF
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), established in 1976, is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute, committed to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public.
###