CCBA Statement On Derek Chauvin's Sentencing
No sentence could ever truly serve to rectify the horrific events surrounding George Floyd's death. The hurt and sorrow that we feel for the Floyd family is immeasurable. Although the sentencing of Derek Chauvin is an important indication that justice is attainable, it is important to remember that the pursuit of justice is an ongoing endeavor. The mere fact that we feared that Chauvin might not be charged and then were consumed with worry that he might evade conviction underscores just how tenuous the nature of Justice is for African Americans. This moment should be seen as a step in the right direction... But it is only a step. The length of the "justice road" will be determined by what we, in this country, demand of ourselves and of those we entrust with the responsibility to police us. When we, as a society, expect and indeed anticipate as a matter of course, that police officers who abuse their authority will be prosecuted and imprisoned, true progress will be made. It would be erroneous to interpret our collective sigh of relief following this sentencing as a chorus sounding in satisfaction. This conviction is not the end. Again, it is only a step in the right direction.
Unfortunately, there are those who perpetuate a false narrative suggesting that black bodies pose an inherent danger... a threat. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In reality, the black community is the backbone of this nation and the strides made by our community, in the face of the unique adversities, are extraordinary and far reaching.
In keeping with the rule of law, it is equally important that the other officers who acted in concert with Chauvin be held accountable. The insidious nature of officers who perpetuate a "thin blue line of silence" fosters an atmosphere where poor policing thrives. Thus, we must not become complacent with this conviction and we must remember we have more work to do in order to bring racial injustice and police brutality to a halt.
In accordance with the founding tenets of this country, all people are entitled to fairness and equity. It would be un-American not to strive for and, in fact, insist on the same for all Black and Brown people.
The Cook County Bar Association salutes the Floyd family for their bravery. We celebrate the Floyds for their willingness to stand in the gap for all of us. We say George Floyd's name along with Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Aubrey, Rekia Boyd, Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Laquan McDonald and many others who lost their lives through heinous police acts. As we mourn for George Floyd and stand with his family, we must be mindful that we still have work to do as this was only one step in our pursuit for equality and justice!
