Justice for George Floyd
Organized by Harlem resident Gerdine Behrmann, the community created a George Floyd Tribute Wall along the 135th Street side of the Schomburg Center in 2020. Items included artwork, cards, and notes. Photo Credit: Lisa Herndon
Yesterday's guilty verdicts in the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd represent a step towards the racial justice for which activists have long marched, kneeled, and protested in the U.S. and around the globe.
Police killings of Black people are painful reminders of not only our history in this nation but, all too often, our present. As we reflect on the justice system holding a member of law enforcement accountable for his actions, let’s also reflect on what our ancestors and modern-day activists have achieved through centuries of protests to affirm that Black lives matter. Let’s also continue to remember George Floyd’s family.
Our research guide, By Any Means Necessary, offers an overview of the resiliency of the Black community and highlights collections documenting the fight for liberation.
Joy L. Bivins and K.C. Matthews
Interim Co-Directors
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture