Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on Verdict in Derek Chauvin Trial

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, United States Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after former police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty by a jury of his peers of murdering George Floyd.

"Last year, the whole world witnessed Derek Chauvin murder George Floyd as onlookers and Mr. Floyd pleaded for his life. Today, after a year of racial reckoning and anxious anticipation, justice was served—in this case.

"Today is a profound moment in the battle for the soul of our nation. After millions of Americans of every color and creed took to the streets to demand accountability for a murder we all witnessed with our own eyes, a jury of Americans made clear that police are not only not above the law, but they can and will be held accountable for egregious misconduct.

"Today is not a day for celebration, but rather a day for restoration. Restoration of faith in our justice system. Restoration of accountability in law enforcement. Restoration of humanity in a system that too often dehumanizes entire swaths of the American population.

"However, while this is a pivotal step in the march toward true justice under the law, we still have a long road to travel before we reach the promised land. We must continue to peacefully speak out, using today's verdict as a catalyst for desperately needed reform in America's policing system.

"Tonight, I will pray for the Floyd family as they recall the blessing that is the memory of their beloved George. Tomorrow, I will continue to push for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act so that no other family may have to endure the pain they have suffered."

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on National Security, International Development, and Monetary Policy; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or matthew.helfant@mail.house.gov