What Next | Daily News and Analysis George Floyd Square, Five Years Later
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Jun 3, 2025 Marcia Howard, president of the Minneapolis Federation of Educators, and Brandt Williams, a senior editor at MPR News, delve into the profound impact of George Floyd's murder five years later. They discuss the ongoing struggle for police reform, highlighting promises unfulfilled by city leaders. Howard emphasizes the crucial role of educators in activism, while both guests reflect on the transformation of George Floyd Square into a symbol of justice. The complexities surrounding community safety and urban infrastructure are also examined, underscoring the continuing fight against systemic oppression.
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Marcia Howard's Transformation
- Marcia Howard became a central figure at George Floyd Square, turning from a TikTok lifestyle poster to a key protester.
- She lives steps from the site and has insisted, "no justice, no streets," with 24 demands for change from the city.
Police Reform Is Incremental
- Minneapolis police budgets have stayed flat or increased despite a shrinking force mostly due to attrition and retirements.
- Incremental reforms, like banning chokeholds and more officer transparency, have occurred but major change remains elusive.
Mental Health Calls Reassigned
- Minneapolis introduced a behavioral crisis response team to handle mental health calls without police, reducing potential for violence.
- This strategy aims to provide better responses and free police for more dangerous situations, showing nuanced reform progress.