Five Years After His Death, America Remembers George Floyd with Nationwide Tributes

Today marks five years since the tragic death of George Floyd, an event that sparked a global movement for racial justice and police reform. Across the United States, communities are gathering to honor Floyd’s legacy with memorial services, concerts, vigils, and discussions on the progress made since his passing.

In Minneapolis, where Floyd was killed, events center around George Floyd Square, the intersection that has become a symbol of resilience and remembrance. The annual Rise and Remember Festival features a morning church service, a gospel concert, and a candlelight vigil. In Houston, Floyd’s hometown, family members and civil rights leaders, including Rev. Al Sharpton, are leading memorial services near his gravesite.

Since Floyd’s death, the push for police reform has led to significant changes, including increased use of body cameras and federal oversight of local police departments. However, activists continue to call for further action, especially as some reforms face challenges under new political leadership.

“George Floyd’s death forced a long-overdue reckoning with systemic racism and galvanized millions to take to the streets in protest,” said Rev. Sharpton. “The conviction of the officer responsible was a rare step toward justice, but our work is far from over.”