Minneapolis Mayor Faces Backlash Over Memorial Day Post
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey drew criticism on Monday for a social media post commemorating George Floyd, whose death six years ago prompted widespread protests and riots against police brutality.
In his message, Frey remarked, “Today, we remember George Floyd, who was killed six years ago by a former Minneapolis police officer. That moment changed our city forever.”
He went on to say that Floyd’s death forced the city to confront “painful truths about race, policing, inequality, and trust,” emphasizing the need for accountability. Frey stated, “Since Mr. Floyd’s murder, our city has been challenged not only to say we have changed, but to prove it.”
“We are committed to honoring this site both as a monument of global significance and as a place where people live, work, gather, and heal,” he added.
Minneapolis Reforming Police Policies
Floyd tragically died after being restrained by police outside a convenience store when he reportedly attempted to use a counterfeit $20 bill, ultimately suffering a medical emergency linked to the officers’ actions.
The officers involved, including Derek Chauvin, received prison sentences for their roles in Floyd’s death, which included Chauvin holding Floyd to the ground with his knee on Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes.
Frey’s commemoration of Floyd came under fire, especially since it coincided with Memorial Day. Republican Rep. Randy Fine from Florida criticized Frey, stating, “Breaking news: Today is Memorial Day, not George Floyd Day. Please show extraordinary respect to our fallen heroes and their families.” He added, “You are a complete disgrace to America, @MayorFrey.”
Some individuals highlighted that the aftermath of Floyd’s death triggered violent riots that led to significant economic repercussions due to looting and arson across the nation.
One commentator responded, “It changed your city, state, and my country for the worse. Your mob killed people and caused billions in economic damage. And for what? Defunding police policies that led to more people being killed.”
Mixed Reactions to Memorial Day Tribute
Floyd’s death was officially determined to be a homicide, resulting from police restraint, although the autopsy noted that drugs in his system, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, were also contributing factors.
Commentator Tomi Lahren expressed disbelief, assuming Frey’s post was a joke, remarking, “I never expected this fruity-ass mayor to honor George Floyd on Memorial Day…but here we are.”
In contrast, Frey also honored the veterans on Memorial Day, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices, “Today, we remember the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect freedom. Not drug addicts who overdosed,” noted one columnist. However, Frey’s acknowledgment of military veterans received mixed feelings, reflecting an ongoing debate over his earlier post.
