ST. PAUL MINNEAPOLIS DISTRICT OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF GEORGE FLOYD

The St. Paul-Minneapolis District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church is incensed at the death of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis Police Department. It is unconscionable to again hear another Black man repeat to police officers that "I can't breathe," while his life was prematurely taken from him, his family, and his friends. 

To watch the video of Mr. Floyd's arrest is beyond disturbing.  It displays the inhumane acts of four uncompassionate police officers who were less concerned about Mr. Floyd's life than they were about exerting their power over someone who has already been subdued and restrained. 

Supported by our leadership Bishop John Franklin White, we believe that it is time to address the systematic issues of White Supremacy and police brutality in our community.

We seize this opportunity to take action calling Mayor Jacob Frey, Chief Medaria Arrandondo, civil rights organizations, and all of our young activists to join with us to begin the difficult and necessary task of restoring justice, compassion, and mercy to the African American citizens of the Minneapolis area. 

We believe that the firing of the four police officers is just a start to what must come and call for all four officers to be charged and prosecuted for their immoral and unconscionable act.  Even with convictions, no amount of justice can bring back the life of Mr. Floyd.

We grieve with the family of George Floyd and the community that he touched.  We pray that God will lead and guide us in the days to come.  We look to the words from the prophet Micah to further console us in these troubled times: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God" Micah 6:8. 

Rev. Stacey L. Smith, Presiding Elder
St. Paul Minneapolis District of the
African Methodist Episcopal Church
952.261.9135
Elderslsmith17@gmail.com