George Floyd Remembered as Family Renews Call for Justice in Policing Act

The day, May 25, 2026, marks six years since George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. His death sparked worldwide protests as people raised their voices against racism and police brutality and demanded accountability.

The Floyd family is now honoring Floyd's memory while continuing to push for changes that would ensure nobody suffers the same fate as him. Floyd’s sister, LaTonya Floyd, and niece, Bianca Williams, fondly remembered him in an interview with People Magazine and talked about how they are still fighting to end racism and police brutality.

George Floyd's death became a global headline and brought international attention to the Black Lives Matter movement. His sister, LaTonya Floyd, reflected on the movement and said, “They said his movement was bigger than Martin Luther King, and that shook my nerves.”

His niece, Bianca Williams, pointed out that for their family, George was not just a headline. “My uncle was more than a headline. He was family. He was deeply loved. His life mattered long before the world knew his name,” she stated.

George Floyd was 46 when Minneapolis police restrained him after he was accused of using a counterfeit $20 bill at a store. During the arrest, Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than nine minutes. The footage of the incident showed Floyd repeatedly complaining of breathing difficulties. But the officers ignored his plea, leading to his death.

In 2021, Chauvin was convicted of George Floyd's murder and sentenced to 22.5 years in prison. The same year, Democrats introduced the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, aimed at banning chokeholds during arrests and restricting no-knock warrants in federal cases. However, the bill was stalled in the Senate.

Talking about the need for the bill and how the Floyd family is still fighting for its enforcement, Williams said, “It's been six years, and we're still pushing to get the bill passed — his life and his legacy should never be forgotten.”

“George Floyd showed the world that racism and police brutality still exist. And I think without that camera rolling, I don't think the world would be able to witness that. He brought a lot of people together,” she added. Despite the family’s efforts, the bill has made no progress in Congress since 2021.

Apart from fighting for justice, the family marks his death anniversary by organizing a community gathering called Conversation with George. “We'll talk about the memories we shared with him, and what love and unity look like, to be able to come together and give back to the community,” Williams said about the event.

Additionally, the Rise and Remember nonprofit organizes a street festival on May 25 every year to honor George Floyd. The event is held at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, the same place where he died. The festival features live performances by various artists and includes a candlelight vigil.