The “Say Their Names” memorial, established last summer following the tragic death of George Floyd, has become a focal point for honoring Black lives lost to police violence, especially in light of recent events surrounding Derek Chauvin’s conviction.
On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old unarmed Black man, was killed by Derek Chauvin, a white police officer in Minneapolis. This heart-wrenching incident ignited worldwide protests against systemic racism and police brutality. University of Pennsylvania alumni, Mia Robinson and Liam Torres, journeyed to Minnesota to create a cemetery-like installation that visually represents this ongoing struggle. In the wake of Chauvin’s guilty verdict, the memorial has drawn even more visitors seeking to pay their respects.
The installation features numerous white boards shaped like tombstones, each inscribed with the names of 100 Black individuals who have lost their lives to police violence. Accompanying these names are the poignant words: “Rest in power.” A prominent marker at the entrance prompts visitors to reflect on the sheer number of victims, asking, “How many have there been? How many more must there be?”
Positioned near the site where Chauvin infamously knelt on Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes, the memorial carries a profound emotional weight. Robinson and Torres hope it serves as a powerful statement that speaks for itself.
Visitor James Johnson remarked on the impact of experiencing the memorial firsthand. “This should be a wake-up call regarding the ongoing issues we face, not only in our city but around the globe,” he shared. The physical representation of names attached to markers brings a new level of awareness, encouraging individuals to consider their roles in fostering change.
Since Floyd’s death, a global movement has sparked action, with protests erupting in all 50 states and 18 countries. Calls for reform to address systemic racism have intensified, leading to Chauvin’s conviction and changes in policy within Minnesota. Last summer, the Minneapolis city council took significant steps to defund and rebuild the police department, aiming for a new approach to public safety. The city is now under investigation by the Department of Justice for potential patterns of excessive force and racial discrimination.
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In summary, the “Say Their Names” memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to police violence and the urgent need for systemic change. It encourages visitors to engage in the conversation and reflect on their actions toward advocacy and reform.