Community leaders call for justice for George Floyd, say arrest of 1 former officer ‘not enough’

Community leaders gathered in downtown Minneapolis Friday afternoon to call for justice for George Floyd.

Former NBA player Stephen Jackson, Social Justice Advocate Tamika Mallory, actor Jamie Foxx and others spoke during a press conference in the City Hall Rotunda at noon. Minnesota Timberwolves players Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Okogie were also in attendance.

"I’m hurt. I’m angry, but I’m not scared," Jackson said.

"It didn’t just start today but it is at a critical point," Mallory added.

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During the press conference, news of the arrest of fired Minneapolis Police officer, Derek Chauvin, the arresting officer who was seen in video with his knee on Floyd’s neck, was announced. Leaders said it’s a good start but it’s "not enough." They pleaded for justice for Floyd and called on the other three former officers to be arrested, charged and convicted with Chauvin.

Social justice advocate Tamika Mallory speaking right now, saying the black community is in a “state of emergency” @KSTP pic.twitter.com/Lc03UJol5M

— Kirsten Swanson (@KirstenKSTP) May 29, 2020

Actor Jamie Foxx, who is originally from Houston, speaking to the group gathered at Minneapolis City Hall, his reaction to watching video of #GeorgeFloyd @KSTP pic.twitter.com/Y3XBZ3TicC

— Kirsten Swanson (@KirstenKSTP) May 29, 2020

The community then moved outside at 1 p.m. for a rally at the Government Center Plaza. During that time, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman announced charges of third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter had been filed against Chauvin. The other officers are not yet in custody or charged.

KSTP Reporter Kirsten Swanson described the atmosphere of the events as calm but charged, with peace and anger living together.

Chants of "no justice, no peace" were heard and many people held signs saying similar things.

Those leaders and friends have now joined a large crowd outside of city hall for a rally. Chants of “no justice, no peace” fill the air. @KSTP pic.twitter.com/DijHYVjA02

— Kirsten Swanson (@KirstenKSTP) May 29, 2020

It comes after violent protests and unrest late Thursday night into Friday morning. KSTP Reporter Chris Egert reported more than 150 businesses were damaged or destroyed by those violent protests.

Friday morning, many people were seen cleaning up the destruction around the metro. In Minneapolis, after some more early morning anger, things calmed down as the National Guard’s presence in many areas.

More sights from today’s rally in Minneapolis outside of city hall, led by black community leaders and friends of #GeorgeFloyd @KSTP pic.twitter.com/xScjOwMw8x

— Kirsten Swanson (@KirstenKSTP) May 29, 2020