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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Anne Claflin (DFL)

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A message about George Floyd, the June special session, and what’s next

Friday, June 26, 2020

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Dear Neighbors, 

All of us are horrified by the murder of George Floyd at the knee of a police officer. The video footage shows a shocking disregard for human dignity and life, with George Floyd telling officers repeatedly that he couldn’t breathe, begging for his life, and calling out for his mother. I am glad the police officers involved were immediately fired and are now facing charges for committing and abetting second-degree murder. 

Minnesotans are still peacefully protesting our current public safety system’s longstanding failure to serve our communities of color. We must separate the civil unrest that followed George Floyd’s murder from peaceful actions. In the strongest terms, I condemn the people who looted businesses, burned down buildings, and destroyed property. The destruction is heartbreaking, and it mostly occurred in vibrant corridors where immigrants and people of color built businesses that have spanned generations. 

In the aftermath, we’ve seen Minnesotans of all backgrounds pitching in to help clean up the rubble, feed each other, and provide comfort. We know that Minnesotans care about each other. We’ve seen our spirit of compassion and generosity on display from the start. This is Minnesota at its best.

In response to George Floyd’s murder and many others, Minnesotans are asking to hold police accountable when they break their oath to serve and protect -- no one is above the law. We should take this time to evaluate law enforcement training, policies, and procedures. Our police and sheriff departments are engaged in public service. We must consider reforms that help them perform their duty to the community. The Legislature had an opportunity to pass historic police accountability legislation during the recent special session. Still, Senate Republicans decided to go home without getting the job done. 

Guided by the voices and experiences of Black and Brown Minnesotans, my DFL colleagues and I approved the needed legislation. (Which in no way directed any local government to defund or dismantle their police departments.) Senate Republicans involved no people of color when writing their proposals that members of the People of Color and Indigenous Caucus slammed as “insulting.”

I am sad that the Legislature was unable to meet this historic moment and deliver on police accountability and reform for Minnesotans. It is an unfortunate but temporary set back because we know that Minnesotans won’t let up until our public safety system keeps everybody safe -- no exceptions. 

One special session success was the approval of more than $60 million in new funding for small business grants. This assistance is available for businesses with 50 employees or less who experienced disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The application period is currently underway and ends on July 2. If you own a small business, click here to learn more and apply. My office is a resource to answer questions and help you navigate the application process. 

The Legislature is likely to convene a second special session in July, which will be our next opportunity to approve police accountability, pass a major jobs bill, and more. Please contact me with your questions and stories in the coming weeks. Your voice makes a difference and can make change happen at our State Capitol. 

 

Sincerely,

Anne Claflin
State Representative