Room To Breathe: A Statement of Justice for George Floyd

Almost one year ago, George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis police officer, Derek Chauvin.  In the moments before his death, Floyd gasped, “I can’t breathe.”  These words have haunted the collective consciousness of people of goodwill since they were first uttered 7 years ago by Eric Garner who was killed at the hands of New York City police officers. There were others, too:  Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Daunte Wright. 

For today, Derek Chauvin has been held accountable for his actions.  Convicted late this afternoon on all three counts, including murder by a Minnesota jury, today’s verdict solemnly recognizes the grief of George Floyd’s family and bears witness to the righteous outrage that spilled into the streets in the days following Floyd’s murder one year ago. 

Today will end and tomorrow will come, but for now, the staff and trustees of Episcopal Charities gratefully acknowledge the good that will flow from today’s decision and for the relief it may bring to those most dearly affected by the ravages of white supremacy and racism.  If this verdict brings any breathing room for the rest of us, let us gather ourselves, our resources, and our prayers to live according to the loving purposes of the One who is the author of justice and the breath of all life.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,
fill me with life anew,
that I may love the way you love,
and do what you would do.

Matt Berryman

Executive Director

Episcopal Charities