Guest Op-Ed: Regarding the Chauvin Verdict

By Acting Mayor Kim Janey

My fellow Bostonians,

On April 20, a jury in Minneapolis found Derek Chauvin guilty on all counts in the murder of George Floyd. While this decision brings some relief, we also know it will not bring back George Floyd. 

George Floyd’s murder has fueled a movement for racial justice and a national conversation on policing. This movement for equity and justice started long before his murder and must continue. I know all of us come to this conversation — and to this work — with a common goal of ending racism.

Each of us, importantly, brings our own perspective and experience to this work. For me, it is as the grandmother of two teenage boys in a world that often criminalizes their Blackness; and, it is as your Mayor, leading the great City of Boston.

I know that the verdict and its aftermath can trigger an array of strong feelings and emotions for many of us. As your Mayor, know that the Boston Public Health Commission’s Neighborhood Trauma Team Network is always here to provide you with free, confidential support, and you can visit neighborhoodhealing.com to learn more.

In the days ahead, let us honor the legacy of George Floyd with the shared work of dismantling structural racism. Let us honor all those who have fought to build a stronger nation, a better city, a more beloved community. Let’s come together in our neighborhoods, in our faith communities, and in our institutions to reform systems and policies that hurt, rather than heal. Let’s continue to unite to improve our city and our community. And, let’s continue to stand together united against racism.

Kim Janey is the Acting Mayor of Boston and a candidate for Mayor in the upcoming election.

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