I’m reaching out today with information about state, local and public/private partnerships to help support our business community and share links to recent zoning conversations. But before you read on, allow me to take a moment to reflect on yesterday’s announcement of the verdict in the George Floyd murder trial.
I was driving my middle schooler home as we listened together to the judge announce the jury’s decision. Like so many Americans, I experienced the weight of the moment with a range of emotions, and was struck by the power of the judge’s clear, concise recitation of the jury’s findings. The judge’s final words were an instruction to all those in the courtroom, “All rise for the Jury,” as they exited.
When we got home, I watched the Minnesota Attorney General, Keith Ellison deliver a statement, and was struck by some of the words he shared with the nation. Attorney Ellison said, “We need true justice. That is not one case. That is a social transformation that says nobody is beneath the law and nobody is above it. This verdict reminds us that we must make enduring, systemic, societal change.”
George Floyd’s death sparked a worldwide movement. Here in our own community, it led to peaceful demonstrations, led by young people. It spurred on nascent efforts to engage community members in conversations about race that we have not often or perhaps rarely or never had before – as individuals, communities or governments. Both the judge, as he thanked the jury, and Attorney General Ellison referenced the role of individual citizens in allowing justice to occur.
As an elected leader, I am keenly aware that we must work to address racism and inequality in the work we do legislatively. I also know that the cause of justice is in our collective hands and hearts – that the conversations we have, decisions we make, and conscious efforts to move to a more just and equitable world are up to each of us. They are not easy conversations, but are necessary. I hope to continue those conversations and that work together with all of you.
