Education Minnesota responds to guilty verdicts in the case against former officer Chauvin

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CHRIS WILLIAMS
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ST. PAUL, Minnesota. April 20, 2021 – After a jury returned guilty verdicts on two counts of murder and one count of manslaughter against former Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin in the killing of George Floyd, Education Minnesota President Denise Specht released the following statement in response. 

“Justice has been served in the murder of George Floyd, but the struggle continues for a new way to deliver public safety for our communities of color. Everyone in Minnesota should feel safe on their streets, in their homes and in their schools. No one should need to feel afraid of those who have sworn to protect and serve. Our union stands with Minnesota’s communities of color as they peacefully demand the police reforms and public investments that will make our towns and neighborhoods healthier, safer and more prosperous for everyone, no matter what we look like, or where we live.”  

“The children and students of Minnesota will be turning to the adults in their lives tonight to help understand what has happened and how to react. This is the time for adults to be at our best and join together in peace, community and mutual respect, no matter our race, background, profession or where we live. The children of Minnesota are watching and learning.” 

Chauvin was convicted Tuesday of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. He faces up to 40 years in prison. Three other former police officers who had a role in killing Floyd are scheduled to be tried in August. 

About Education Minnesota
Education Minnesota is the voice for professional educators and students. Education Minnesota’s members include teachers and education support professionals in Minnesota’s public school districts, faculty members at Minnesota’s community and technical colleges and University of Minnesota campuses in Duluth and Crookston, retired educators and student teachers. Education Minnesota is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and AFL-CIO.