The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for a 2025 season with a new quarterback and new pieces all around him. However, on Sunday they took a step away from the game of football to make a statement about something else.
George Floyd.
Vikings Release Massive George Floyd Statement On Anniversary Of His Death
A makeshift memorial for George Floyd includes a mural, cards and flowers near the spot where he died while in police custody in Minneapolis. © Trevor Hughes / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
A makeshift memorial for George Floyd includes a mural, cards and flowers near the spot where he died while in police custody in Minneapolis. © Trevor Hughes / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
According to the Vikings official Twitter (X) account:
Today marks five years since the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. We pause to reflect on the pain, the change, and the call for justice that began here and still echoes today.
Our commitment to equality will never change.
Image
Aug 19, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; A Minnesota Vikings helmet sits on the turf before the game against the Tennessee Titans at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 19, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; A Minnesota Vikings helmet sits on the turf before the game against the Tennessee Titans at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune:
Sunday marks five years since George Floyd was pinned by his neck and killed by police in the streets of Minneapolis, sparking a historic wave of calls to action to end police brutality and racial injustice.
Since Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, by Minneapolis police, observers have trekked to the city every year on the anniversary of his death to pay their respects and celebrate his legacy.
Early Sunday morning, Eric Coleman sat near a huge raised fist that’s become synonymous with George Floyd Square, waiting for the crowds.
Coleman, who is serving as a security guard on Sunday, has worked twice before on the anniversary of Floyd’s death with a team that’s mostly made up of people from south Minneapolis.
Coleman said the day has waned in intensity since Floyd’s death. But the anniversary’s ability to bring residents together remains.
Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; A Minnesota Vikings helmet sits idle on the field before the game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; A Minnesota Vikings helmet sits idle on the field before the game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
“It’s sad that an event like this had to happen for the community to come together,” he said. “But in the end, that’s what you really want.”
On a weekend that is usually reserved for remembering fallen veterans, Floyd’s presence can be felt throughout the Twin Cities — from author readings to prayer circles, concerts and more.
On Sunday, there are several planned events to honor Floyd’s life, with most of the major activities happening near the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue where he was killed. At what’s now known as George Floyd Square, scheduled events include a morning church service followed by an evening gospel concert — featuring popular local choir the Sounds of Blackness — and a candlelight vigil.
Aug 29, 2019; Orchard Park, NY, USA; General view of a Minnesota Vikings helmet prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 29, 2019; Orchard Park, NY, USA; General view of a Minnesota Vikings helmet prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
For All NFL And College Football Content:
Follow me on X (formerly Twitter) at @mcquadewarnold . Also, do not forget to follow us at On Twitter for even more great football content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in the world of the NFL – especially with all the trade rumors swirling around and free agency new s – college football, and more,click here!