NAACP Commemorates Fifth Anniversary of George Floyd’s Murder

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 23, 2025

Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org

WASHINGTON – This weekend marks five years since the senseless murder of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement – a collective reckoning that shook communities across the world, leading to demands for  justice. 

The horrifying video footage of Floyd's murder circulated through the media and across the internet, bringing attention to the excessive use of police force that is too often targeted at Black communities. The United States erupted into protests, meanwhile, corporations issued bold financial and diversity commitments, and elected officials promised police and criminal justice reforms. But five years later, we must confront a painful reality: much of what was promised has not been delivered.

Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO shared the following statement in reflection:

"Five years. Five years. Five whole years since George Floyd was murdered, and Congress still hasn't passed a single piece of legislation to address this country's policing crisis. Rather than enacting meaningful change, Donald Trump is canceling federal oversight of the Minneapolis and Louisville Police Departments and sweeping the DOJ's findings of civil rights violations by police departments nationwide under the rug.

"1,175 people died at the hands of police last year. Those deaths could have been prevented if elected officials actually had the courage to do something. We voted them in to act in our best interests — not to sit around and twiddle their thumbs. If five years isn't enough, how much time do they need to pass a bill? People are dying every day they fail to act. Enough is enough.

"Black Lives Matter. Always. Pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act now."

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.