How the UK and US are marking his death in Minneapolis one year on

Today marks one year since the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after a white police officer kneeled on his neck for nine minutes.

His death sparked a wave of protests around the world, calling for an end to systemic racism and police brutality.

Here is how the one-year anniversary of Floyd’s death is being commemorated in the UK and the US.

When is the anniversary of George Floyd’s death?

George Floyd died on Monday 25 May 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, aged 46, after a police officer knelt on his neck for more than nine minutes, despite Floyd, who was unarmed, repeatedly saying “I can’t breathe”.

Protests against racism and police violence in the US and across the world began following his death, which triggered the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Derek Chauvin, who was fired from the Minneapolis Police Department, was convicted of Floyd’s murder earlier this year.

The jury found him guilty of three counts: third-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter.

Today – Tuesday 25 May 2021 – marks a year on from when Floyd died.

How is the anniversary being marked in the UK?

Campaign group Stand Up To Racism is calling on people to “take the knee” at 6pm this evening as part of a “week of action” marking the anniversary of Floyd’s death.

“This is to both offer solidarity with the BLM movement in the US and highlights the reality of institutional racism and disproportionate policing in Britain,” the group’s website said.

There are also many local actions planned for this evening across the country, including in Manchester, Birmingham and across London, which you can find a list of here.

Additionally, there are many events small virtual and real-life taking place throughout the week to discuss the issues at hand organised by various groups.

For example, one event is The ỌMA Foundation presents: We Rise: Black Lives Still Matter 2021, which is a virtual conversation event on 27 March at 7pm.

The BBC World Service is airing a special programme called George Floyd: One Year On, on 28 May, which will be available to listen to after broadcast online here.

On Saturday 22 May, protesters from Stand Up To Racism gathered outside the US embassy in Nine Elms in London with placards and banners reading “Black Lives Matter”.

Elizabeth Adofo, an organiser of the protest, said on the day: “We are here today to mark one year since the murder of George Floyd at the hands of racist police officers.

“And it’s been one year since everyone across the world marched in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.

“We’re here to say it’s still important, even after the cameras stop showing up, even after the big crowds on the streets, it is still important to spread that message.”

The action is one of a fresh crop of peaceful protests across the UK to mark the one-year anniversary.

Saturday’s protests, which also took place in cities including Manchester, London, Glasgow and Swansea, were followed by an online rally that included speeches from university professors, solicitors, race equality campaign group and former shadow home secretary Diane Abbott MP.

How is it being marked in the US?

Meanwhile in the US, rallies took place over the weekend ahead of the anniversary of Floyd’s death.

Among them was a march in Minnesota, attended by people including members of Floyd’s family and local activists.

The rally was organised by the George Floyd Memorial Foundation, which has also organised several other anniversary events including a virtual day of action yesterday.

The group has provided a toolkit and information on how to get involved, from donating to relevant causes, emailing politicians, speaking out on social media and registering to vote, which remains relevant now.

An event taking place today is A Celebration of Life for George Floyd in Minneapolis, which the George Floyd Memorial Foundation website said will “celebrate life through black culture, art, history, and support local businesses. 

“The day will mark the city’s resilience, unity and will reinvigorate the community to continue to advance the fight for justice for all. Featuring special guest appearances and performers,” it added.

US President Joe Biden is also reportedly planning to meet members of the Floyd family at the White House today to talk about police reform.

Additional reporting by PA.