Another unarmed African America male who was murdered by the hands of four police officers on May 25. He died of asphyxiation after officers knelt on his neck and back. Mr. George Floyd pleaded with the same words of Eric Garner, "I can't breathe." Hours later, he died in police custody.
Some question why others have not gotten as much attention as George Floyd has since he is not unlike many others who are died at the hands of police. Simply put, his death was the straw that broke the camel's back and COVID-19 made it possible.
The world is under very unique circumstances because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With unemployment high, more workers being forced to work from home, and students out of school or taking online classes, people have more time to protest and catch up on the news. Outrage was already present after the murder of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor. The murder of George Floyd was fresh and broadcast live on social media. Extra time, current outrage, and already frustrating conditions, people are able to react and protest immediately. Since May 25, protest have erupted all over the United States and around the world including London, Berlin, and New Zealand. It is only June 1st and protest are continuing.
I urge everyone protesting to wear a mask when you go out, bring goggles and milk, bring water and snacks to share, wear boots or running shoes and long sleeves, bring a small durable backpack and wear pants with pockets, bring sanitizer, sanitary napkins, and baby wipes, bring portable chargers, do not forget your camera and camera gear, take the train if you can, and lastly stay safe and get tested for COVID-19 afterwards.
For information on how to donate to George Floyd's family, visit their go fund me https://www.gofundme.com/f/georgefloyd