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Gov. Edwards releases statement on the death of George Floyd

Federal, state officials provide update on George Floyd investigation
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Governor John Bel Edwards on Saturday released a statement on the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis earlier this week.

"For too long, we have failed to fully address the lasting and insidious impacts that racism and racial inequality have had on our society. No one should fear violence or mistreatment because of the color of their skin," said Edwards.

He explained that the incident hits close to home in Louisiana and other communities across the country.

Edwards called for everyone, regardless of the color of their skin or ethnicity, to "speak out against this great injustice."

George Floyd died earlier this week in Minneapolis. Videos show Floyd on the ground with a police officers' knee on his neck. That officer, Derek Chauvin, has been arrested and is facing charges of third degree murder and manslaughter. The other officers are under investigation.

Read Gov. Edwards' full statement below.

Although I never knew George Floyd, I will never forget him or the fact that his death was both terribly wrong and completely and easily avoidable. No one who sees the video of his death can deny this, which is why it is important for all of us, regardless of the color of our skin, or ethnicity, to speak out against this great injustice. For too long, we have failed to fully address the lasting and insidious impacts that racism and racial inequality have had on our society. No one should fear violence or mistreatment because of the color of their skin. I share the outrage and my heart hurts along with everyone impacted by what is happening, but especially our African American brothers and sisters who throughout this difficult and heartbreaking week have had to again call into question their hope for justice and equality. Unfortunately, this hits home for Louisiana and many other communities across the country. As Dr. Martin Luther King has taught us, injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Creating a better world for our children and grandchildren begins with each of us reflecting on the biases we hold, sometimes unconsciously, and how we can treat each other better. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life. We are all called by our Creator to be better: 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.' I pray for God’s guidance and comfort for all of us.
Gov. John Bel Edwards

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