OKLAHOMA CITY – April 21, 2021 – Like many across the country, the Oklahoma City Urban League was anxiously awaiting the verdict in the criminal case against Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd.  Nearly one year ago, protests erupted around the nation in response to his murder, and for nearly 10 minutes, we all watched in horror as he pleaded for his life. While the conviction stands as an exception to the norm regarding police brutality convictions, we remain adamant and hopeful about the need for common-sense justice reform. Racial trauma has left the Black community in a perpetual state of grief, incessantly triggered by fatal encounters with police – leaving little to no room in our state and nation for healing.

The verdict in Minneapolis is a victory for the rule of law and a step in the right direction for holding every person accountable for their actions- but much more work remains.

We urge Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to further demonstrate a commitment to racial justice and to end the unjustified killing of Black people in America.  Through our work in Community Convening and Social Justice, we will continue to work towards racial and economic justice in Oklahoma City.  In addition, we will remain focused on driving meaningful police reform and strengthening citizen engagement in community policing efforts.

Our support and thoughts continue to be with the family of George Floyd during this time.  We urge everyone in our community to join the Urban League in making their voices heard in a safe, meaningful, and impactful way.