Editor’s note: This story was originally published on May 26, 2024.
A look back at local, national and world events through Deseret News archives.
On May 26, 2020, Minneapolis police issued a statement saying George Floyd had died after a “medical incident,” and that he had physically resisted officers and appeared to be in medical distress; minutes after the statement was released, bystander video was posted online showing a different reality.
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Protests over Floyd’s death began, with tense skirmishes developing between protesters and Minneapolis police. With the oppressive weight of the COVID-19 pandemic already stretching emotions to the limit, outrage spread throughout the nation and world, including Utah and the West.
Floyd, a Black man, was killed May 25 when a white police officer pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck for about 9½ minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and pleading that he couldn’t breathe. Four police officers who were involved in Floyd’s arrest were fired, and one was convicted of manslaughter.
The images from the protests were important, captured by news photographers and everyday Americans and shared with each other. Precise reporting and commentary — both angry and thoughtful — continued in the months that followed.
And today.
Here are some of those images and words, from Deseret News colleagues:
“A summer of protests, in photos”
“Salt Lake endures long day of protests as national anger over racism and the death of George Floyd grips the country”
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“More than 1,000 demonstrators hold vigil for George Floyd on balmy night in Provo”
“1 year after George Floyd’s killing, Salt Lake mayor reflects on what’s changed”
“George Floyd: A year of stories from the Deseret News”
“After George Floyd’s murder by police, his brother Philonise Floyd strives to turn ‘pain into purpose’”
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“Black America can’t breathe”
“Read the hard truths and difficult questions from Deseret News voices”
“Americans recognize racial inequality. But will that lead to change?”
“Separate the peaceful message from the inflammation”