On TuesdayMay 20th, between 330-4:00 pm, a jury found Derek Chauvin guilty on all counts. The charges were relative to events surrounding the untimely death of Geroge Floyd. And unsurprisingly, the collective response is one of hope and satisfaction.

Tuesday’s proceedings of State vs. Derek Chauvin brought an end to an almost yearlong saga. Consequently, the troubling events of May 2020 forever serve as a historical marker. Shockingly, George Floyd’s death lit an inextinguishable global flame for justice. Collectively, the populace rose in revolt. Then, they held their breath. The call for justice kept ringing loud and clear. However, the expectation for change was small. For, unfortunately, the scales of justice were off balance.

March 8, 2021, began Derek Chauvin’s trial proceedings. Chauvin stood facing, second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter charges. Subsequently, a 12 member jury sat through weeks of testimony. Nevertheless, after three weeks, and ten hours of deliberation, a guilty decision was rendered on all counts.

Truly, this verdict is a breath of fresh air. Furthermore, “Derek Chauvin now faces up to 75 years in prison at his upcoming sentencing.” https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/derek-chauvin-verdict-reached-trial-over-george-floyd-s-death-n1264565  However, this is not the end. Unfortunately, the pursuit for progress continues. George Floyd’s Brother, Philonise Floyd, aptly relays in an interview, “The guilty verdict was so much of a relief.”https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/derek-chauvin-trial-04-20-21/index.html.

Despite the truth in those words, relief is fleeting. Unfortunately, the nation needs a cure. Therefore, this case must set a precedent for improvement. Assuredly, the message is clear.  justice is for all of us.