Five Years After George Floyd's Death: Reflections from Chief Arradondo and Community Voices

Five Years After George Floyd's Death: Reflections from Chief Arradondo and Community Voices

On May 25, 2020, the tragic death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin ignited demonstrations not just across the country but around the world. Fast forward to May 20, 2025, former Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria "Rondo" Arradondo, who was the city's first Black chief, offers insights into that critical moment through his newly published book, Chief Rondo: Securing Justice for the Murder of George Floyd.

The book serves as a chronicle of not only Floyd’s death but also of the significant protests that erupted in response, manifesting in a call for extensive reforms within policing and societal attitudes towards race. Arradondo met with NPR’s Michel Martin for a candid discussion at the East Lake Street Library, just a stone’s throw away from the now-damaged third police precinct—an epicenter of protests and unrest.

As Arradondo reflects, he recalls the chaos of that evening when he made the decisive call to evacuate officers from the precinct, stating, "As your chief, I can no longer keep our city safe." His acknowledgment of danger led to the need for National Guard intervention, a moment described by many as controversial, as it sparked debates about policing strategies and public safety.

Arradondo asserts that while property damage occurred and some viewed the police withdrawal as neglectful, the priority was to save lives. "If those officers would have been directed to hold that precinct at all costs, there would've been funerals… and civilian funerals. Property was lost, but lives were saved. That is my North Star," he explained.

In the wake of Floyd's murder, valuable insights arose about generational trauma related to policing. Arradondo expressed a hope that the city learns from the past five years—emphasizing that dismissing these events as isolated incidents would be a mistake.

The reflections resonate deeply within the community, especially during remembrance events held to honor Floyd’s legacy. Brandon Williams, Floyd's nephew, has continuously returned to Minnesota, becoming an integral part of events commemorating his uncle's life and the ongoing pursuit of justice. "We didn’t really have time to grieve," Williams stated, highlighting the emotional labor both he and the family bear in the fight for systemic change.

As the community remains vigilantly aware of the impact of police violence, the site of Floyd's murder has evolved into George Floyd Square—a memorial, an activist hub, and a point of contention. Symptoms of a divided opinion about how to honor Floyd's death emerge in discussions among business owners and community activists.

Challenges and Dreams

For some local business owners, the aftermath of Floyd's murder left irrecoverable scars. Businesses like Smoke In The Pit have suffered due to the unsafe perception of the area, leading owners to sue the city. Meanwhile, memorial activists argue that the space should remain untouched as a reminder and a tool for activism.

Jeanelle Austin of Rise and Remember, leads efforts to preserve the square as a testament to resistance and healing. "We practice preservation as protest," she remarked, reflecting a collective commitment to memory and action. The perpetuation of community-driven gathering rituals, from music performances to gardening endeavors, symbolizes not only mourning but also a desire for systemic change.

Despite the scars left by unrest, community members like Ace Rice, who opened a gallery in the square, promote healing through art while recognizing the historical significance of their space. Through artistic initiatives, residents aim to cultivate narratives that challenge ongoing disparities and inspire unity.

A Road to Healing

As the city continues to navigate the complexity of healing and accountability, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey acknowledges the duality of community desires for both remembrance and renewal in George Floyd Square. With ongoing plans to transform the precinct site into the Minneapolis Democracy Center, tensions have arisen regarding transportation access and pedestrian safety.

The ongoing conflict between wishes for accessibility and the preservation of a solemn site reflects the broader societal struggle over how to confront painful legacies while striving for progress. As both Mayor Frey and community leaders advocate for a balanced approach, the path ahead remains murky, ripe with potential compromise and understanding.

Conclusion

Five years on, while many within the community remain steadfastly committed to honoring Floyd’s legacy, the balancing act between memory and the practical needs for revitalization highlights a critical juncture for Minneapolis. This dialogue captures the essence of a nation still grappling with fundamental questions of justice, accountability, and community healing in the wake of tragedy.