The Governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, has activated the state’s National Guard to maintain peace in Minneapolis, where protests over George Floyd’s death have become violent and destructive.
“It’s time to rebuild. Rebuild the city, rebuild our justice system, and rebuild the relationship between law enforcement and those assigned to protect, “Walz said in a statement.” George Floyd’s death must lead to justice and systemic change, not more death and destruction. “
Walz sign an executive order Thursday activated the Minnesota National Guard, saying troops would “protect peaceful demonstrations” in a city where angry protesters had burned buildings during the two days of unrest.
“As Governor, I will always defend the right to protest,” Walz added. “That’s how we express pain, process tragedies and make changes.”
Floyd, a black man, was seen in a viral video shot by a white Minneapolis police officer with the help of three other policemen, and shouted, “I can’t breathe” before he died in police custody on Monday.
The four officers involved have been fired. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called for the prosecution of filmed officers pinning Floyd on the neck, Derek Chauvin, while also pleading with the townspeople to maintain peace.
Floyd’s brother, Philonise Floyd, said he understood the anger among the protesters Thursday morning, even though the family had advocated a peaceful demonstration.
“People are torn and injured because they are tired of seeing black men die constantly, repeatedly,” he said in a CNN interview.
Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan added that troops needed after the demonstration late Wednesday “became very insecure for all involved.”
