to george
Yesterday afternoon, when I saw the announcement that the jury in the Chauvin trial had reached a verdict, a wave of fear swept over me. I had been doing a pretty good job of protecting myself throughout the trial: I had deliberately only been skimming the news, in an effort to protect my spirit.
But for the hour following the announcement, I was terrified. And angry that I was terrified. This shouldn't have been a case where I worried what the outcome would be. IT WAS ON VIDEO, for God's sake.
When the verdict was finally announced -- guilty on all counts! -- I broke down into sobs. I don't cry that easily, but for 10 minutes I sobbed. Thank God. Thank God. Thank God.
May George Floyd rest in power. May his family find some comfort in justice served. May his memory be a blessing to them. May this verdict be a glimmer of hope for the recognition of the humanity of Black people.
Derek Chauvin is a murderer, but he is not singular in his brutality. In fact, just in the last month, there have been multiple senseless murders of innocent Black and brown people all over this country. And around the world, people with power continue to oppress and brutalize those without, in the most horrific ways.
There is work still to be done, my brothers and sisters. Let's get to it. ✌🏾✊🏾❤️✨
Soundtrack: Rise up by Ady Suleiman
It’s all about rhythm.