Beatty Honors the Anniversary of George Floyd’s Murder Pressing for Police Reform
WASHINGTON, DC – Tomorrow marks four years since the horrific murder of George Floyd by former Minneapolis police officer, Derek Chauvin. In a video captured on a camera phone and shared all over the world, Mr. Floyd can be heard saying what would be his last words, “I can’t breathe,” while Chauvin kneeled on his neck for more than nine minutes.
Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) released the following statement on the eve of the anniversary of his passing:
"With the anniversary of George Floyd's death, we are reminded of the purpose behind our fight to pass meaningful police reform legislation. It's about saving lives and bringing change to Black communities, so we no longer feel unsafe at the hands of the law enforcement meant to protect us,” said Congresswoman Beatty. “George Floyd should still be alive today. With the reintroduction of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2024, we honor his memory not with fleeting tributes, but with an unwavering commitment to enact vital reform and forge a society where every individual is treated with dignity and respect under the law.”
The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act aims to ensure police accountability in our courts, enhance transparency by gathering more reliable and precise data on police misconduct and use-of-force, and improve police training and practices. With approximately. 18,000 different police departments in the United States, there are no uniform standards for training, use of force, de-escalation, or even who can be a police officer. This has led to a disparity in policing methods and accountability for officer misconduct from city to city, county to county, and state to state. This bill will hold law enforcement accountable for misconduct, distinguishing problematic officers from the majority committed to just and equitable public safety. It will enhance training, practices, and transparency, helping to restore trust within the communities served.
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