One year after the brutal killing of George Floyd, his family met US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House.

On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis Police Department officer Derek Chauvin knelt on the back of 46-year-old African-American George Floyd’s neck in a bid to restrain him while trying to take him into custody in connection with a matter involving an allegedly fake $20 bill. Chauvin knelt for over nine excruciating minutes as Floyd gasped for breath, his dying words being, “I can’t breathe!”

On April 20 this year, a jury found Chauvin guilty on charges of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.

Today, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris met Floyd’s family at the White House. After the meeting Floyd’s brother Philonise Floyd told media persons, “If you can make laws to protect the Bald Eagle, you can make federal laws to protect people of color.”

 George Floyd’s other brother Terrence Floyd said, “Being here today is an honor… to meet with the President and the Vice President and for them to show their concern for our family, and for them to actually give an ear,” adding, “It was a very productive conversation and I’m grateful for it. I thank everybody for the love.”

Floyd’s nephew Brandon Williams told media persons, “We are very appreciative and grateful that the President and Vice President invited us here.”

President Biden tweeted about Floyd’s family’s courage:

Vice President Kamala Harris too pushed for legislative reforms to end systemic racism:

Civil Rights attorney Ben Crump who has not only been assisting the family of George Floyd get justice, but also fighting cases for several other victims of racism and police brutality pushed for the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Bill. He tweeted, “Today is the one year commemoration of George Floyd’s death. Let’s honor his legacy by raising our voices for police reform so marginalized minorities won’t have to endure the unbearable pain suffered by George. Urge Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice In Policing Act!”

A commemorative gathering took place at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis where Floyd’s sister Bridgett was present. However, just hours before the gathering, shots rang out at the spot forcing people to duck for cover. An Associated Press journalist reported hearing as many as 30 gun shots!

Meanwhile, tributes poured in on Twitter:

*Feature image by Chad Davis via Wikimedia Commons.