“The jury’s decision today to hold a police officer criminally liable for the murder of George Floyd has brought a collective sigh of relief. The guilty verdict for Police Officer Derek Chauvin is an outcome that has been previously elusive in court proceedings involving the death of a Black man at the hands of police. It affirms the integrity of our nation’s judicial system and the importance of our rule of law.
“That said, today’s conviction does not of itself spell an outcome that is fully remedial or just. The officer’s conviction on felony charges of murder and manslaughter, even if it withstands the likely appeal process, will not return George Floyd to his family.
“In the 11 months since George Floyd’s death jarred the consciousness of our nation and precipitated one of the largest, most sustained social outcries in our history, there have been widespread calls to rethink and reform the institution of policing. If they are to be consequential and lasting, such sweeping changes are not swiftly conceived. It is important that we keep the conversation going and continue to advocate for the equity and justice we seek.
“As I have said before, higher education can play a role in the conception and provocation of this change. As members of a vibrant, reflective university community, we have both the privilege and duty to wrestle with the difficult questions of our criminal-legal system, and to continue driving the discussion in meaningful ways.”
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