To mark the fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s death, Detroiters are invited to remember the man and share their experiences with how his murder at the hands of police has shaped their lives.
“What’s Changed, What’s Not Changed? A George Floyd Moment,” will be held Saturday, May 31 from 1-3 p.m. at the University of Michigan Detroit Center, 3663 Woodward Ave., Suite #150.
Hosted by Dr. Paul Draus, a criminal justice professor and faculty director at the Detroit Center, and nonprofit online magazine Detroit is Different, the event seeks to have an intergenerational conversation about the impact of Floyd’s murder and the ensuing global uprising for justice.
It’s the third event in a series.
Black Gen Z Detroiters will share testimonials about how that moment shaped their lives, relationships with law enforcement, and visions for justice. Alongside them will be professionals in public safety and community advocacy, engaging in real-time conversation about change, resistance and the ongoing fight for equity.
On May 25, 2020, George Floyd died during an interaction with Minneapolis police. For eight minutes and 46 seconds, Officer Derek Chauvin knelt on Floyd’s neck, asphyxiating him. Floyd told officers, “I can’t breathe” dozens of times before dying.
Floyd’s murder became a galvanizing event that launched 100 days of protest in the US and around the world with demonstrations against police brutality and calls for reform. Five years on and with Chauvin sentenced to serve more than 20 years in prison, Floyd’s name and face remain a rallying cry.
Event attendees can expect interactive dialogue bridging generations, candid reflections from Detroiters and special guests including Victoria Camille, District 7 candidate for Detroit Police Commission. The panel will be moderated by New Detroit’s Rebecca Irby.
“This isn’t just another panel — it’s a call to connection and accountability. Expect
unfiltered truths, community healing, and the raw voices of a generation determined not to let justice be delayed any longer,” an event listing reads. “Join us in holding space for remembrance, resilience, and radical imagination.”
Admission is free and open to the public. Food will be catered by Delectables by
Design, featuring cuisine by Chef Kay.
Detroit is Different works in partnership with BridgeDetroit to produce the Detroit Next election podcast and YouTube show.
Thank you for highlighting the event. We are truly looking forward to engaging with the community about this impactful moment in world history.
There are people who continue to insist that Floyd is somehow responsible for his own death as if having a 200 pound man on his neck for almost ten minutes had nothing to with it.