By Alliance President Terry Gips
It felt good, sad and hopeful to be back again in the sacred space of George Floyd Square in Minneapolis for the fourth anniversary of his murder at the hands of the police. There is a unique field of energy in this community of trauma, healing, hope and activism. Alliance friend Jay Webb, the Gardener of George Floyd Square, is still handing out free seeds, and kids and adults are creating artwork in galleries and on the street and buildings.
There was an abundant sense of generosity and kindness as free food and beverages were provided. I went to buy something at the infamous Cup (now Unity) Foods, where George had just been before the police forced him to the ground in front. Just as I was about to pay, a tall Black guy told the cashier he was paying. I countered but he insisted and parted saying, “Pay it forward.” That’s a wonderful reminder of the power we each have to make a difference.
