Five years ago, the world watched in horror as a video of George Floyd’s death went viral. On May 25, 2020, Floyd, an unarmed Black man, died in Minneapolis after a White police officer knelt on his neck for over eight minutes, despite Floyd’s pleas that he couldn’t breathe. This tragic event ignited global protests against racial injustice and police brutality, sparking a renewed call for systemic change in the United States.
In the immediate aftermath, there was a surge of optimism that real reform was possible. Cities and states across the U.S. pledged to rethink policing policies, and discussions about racial inequality became central in the public sphere. Activists and community leaders demanded accountability and transformative change to address long-standing issues within law enforcement.
However, five years later, many are questioning whether meaningful progress has been made. While some areas have introduced new policies, such as banning chokeholds and implementing body cameras, critics argue that these measures are insufficient. Reports indicate that incidents of police violence continue, and comprehensive federal legislation on police reform has yet to pass.
“We had hoped that George Floyd’s death would be a turning point,” says Maya Thompson, a community organizer. “But systemic change takes time and commitment, and we’re not seeing the level of action that this moment demands.”
The debate over police reform remains deeply polarized in the U.S., with some advocating for defunding or abolishing the police, while others emphasize the need for better training and community engagement. The lack of consensus has contributed to stalled efforts at the national level.
As the world marks five years since George Floyd’s death, the question lingers: Has the momentum for change been lost? For many activists, the answer is a call to renew efforts and keep pushing for justice.
“We can’t afford to become complacent,” Thompson adds. “The fight for equality and justice is ongoing, and it’s up to all of us to keep it alive.”
