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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Melissa Hortman (DFL)

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Statement from Speaker Hortman and Majority Leader Winkler on one-year anniversary of murder of George Floyd

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

St. Paul, Minnesota — Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Majority Leader Ryan Winkler released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the murder of George Floyd:

“One year after the tragic murder of George Floyd, there is so much work left to do to ensure Black Lives Matter in Minnesota,” said Speaker Hortman. “We took the first steps in passing police reforms last year, but the calls for justice and a better future are loud and clear, and we have a long road ahead of us to deliver systemic change. As we recover from the pandemic, we must address the violence, disinvestment, and lack of opportunity in our communities. House DFLers remain committed to addressing our state's deep racial inequities and delivering a fair justice system and safe communities for all Minnesotans — no matter what we look like or where we live.”

“We need a criminal justice system that provides safety for everyone, especially the Black Minnesotans who are suffering the most,” said Majority Leader Winkler. “Last summer did not mark the end of the Legislature’s work on police reform and accountability. Minnesota is ready for an approach to public safety that values humanity and treats everyone with dignity and respect. As we mourn the murder of George Floyd, Minnesotans closest to the historical pain and trauma must be at the forefront of change.”