Day of Remembrance community events in Minneapolis honor life of George Floyd
A series of community events in Minneapolis will honor the life of George Floyd on Friday, as organizers hope to create a space for healing, reflection and a commitment to racial justice.
The second annual Day of Remembrance began with an interfaith prayer in front of the Hennepin County Government Center.
"We carry the struggle for all those who died by the hand of state violence. We carry their struggle," said Rev. Dr. DeWayne Davis of Plymouth Congregational Church.
A community brunch was scheduled to feature panelists such as Philando Castile's mother Valerie Castile and CEO of the African American Leadership Forum Adair Mosely. State leaders also joined to reflect on the past five years since Floyd's murder. They said changes have been made, but more needs to be done.
"I want to give some credit and say there has been some progress. But that progress has to continue, and we definitely need to see much more of it," said Briana Joyner, board member with Win Back.
"I think today in this moment, gathering, and I would ask each and every one of you that it's a day of remembrance as we said, but it has to be a day of accountability," said Gov. Tim Walz.
A moment of silence and flower ceremony at George Floyd Square followed the brunch.
The day will conclude with a community gathering at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
"As we approach the five-year mark since George Floyd's death, this event offers space to reflect, reconnect, and reaffirm the fight for racial justice. At a time when national discourse on equity is fading and DEI efforts are being scaled back, this gathering brings people together across generations and sectors to honor history and inspire dialogue of healing and change," organizers said.
Day of Remembrance itinerary
Interfaith prayer gathering
- When: 8 a.m.
- Where: Minneapolis City Hall rotunda
Day of Remembrance brunch (ticketed)
- When: 10 a.m.
- Where: Hilton Minneapolis
Moment of silence
- When: 12:30 p.m.
- Where: George Floyd Square
Art Highlight: Art Heals, Art Activates
- When: 5 p.m.
- Where: Minneapolis Institute of Art (RSVP required)
