George Floyd’s family shares hopes for future of 38th and Chicago

It’s been more than a year since George Floyd was killed while in Minneapolis police custody. The intersection where it happened — 38th Street East and Chicago Avenue South — has transformed into both a space for people to heal and a center of controversy.

As it stands now, barricades have been removed by city crews and traffic is able to move through. For months that was not the case as it was occupied by community members. Despite traffic flowing, artwork and a large memorial in the middle of the intersection still stand.

Future plans for the intersection have not been set, but 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS is learning more about possibilities from those related to Floyd.

“I want this to be a thriving neighborhood, but as much as we can I want to keep the integrity of the memorial,” Angela Harrelson, Floyd’s aunt said.

Harrelson is also the co-chair of the George Floyd Global Memorial. She’s been working alongside community partners to preserve thousands of pieces of art that have been created by community members but says more needs to be done to preserve it all and create a more permanent place for people to appreciate it.

Harrelson, along with her brother, Selwyn Jones, has been talking directly with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey about the intersection’s future.

A few other specifics Floyd’s family mentioned include:

• A museum for people to appreciate the artwork and learn more about the impact of Floyd’s death.
• Keeping as much of the large memorial in the middle of the intersection intact.
• Investing into the surrounding communities to create opportunities for the community to thrive.

“I hope peace comes,” Jones added. “I can see a lot of great things happening.”

In a statement provided to 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS, Frey thanked the Floyd family for their collaboration.

“I’m grateful to the Floyd family, including Angela and Selwyn for their partnership and discussions regarding the future of George Floyd Square," Frey said. "Their input to myself and staff regarding everything from the permanent memorial to their vision for progress has been simply invaluable and we look forward to continued collaboration."

The mayor and the family did not share specifics about a timeline for any major changes, but Harrelson said she is hopeful that plans for George Floyd Square will come into focus within the next year.

“We must not let his death be his last word,” Harrelson said.