For five days, Americans have risen up against the killing of George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, by a white police officer in the city of Minneapolis while he was in custody. The tragedy was filmed by passersby and shared online for the world to see. In the video, Floyd can be seen pleading for his life as one policeman continues to choke him with his knee while others hold him down.

The brutality seen in the footage has shocked the world and, understandably, driven thousands to the streets across the US to demand justice, equality and fair treatment of minorities by law enforcement officials.

Floyd’s death has revealed deep fractures within American society, putting the spotlight on instances of police brutality against marginalised communities.

For five days, Americans have risen up against the killing of George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, by a white police officer in the city of Minneapolis while he was in custody. The tragedy was filmed by passersby and shared online for the world to see. In the video, Floyd can be seen pleading for his life as one policeman continues to choke him with his knee while others hold him down.

The brutality seen in the footage has shocked the world and, understandably, driven thousands to the streets across the US to demand justice, equality and fair treatment of minorities by law enforcement officials.

Floyd’s death has revealed deep fractures within American society, putting the spotlight on instances of police brutality against marginalised communities.

The year 2020 has brought about trials and tribulations all over the world, and particularly in the US. This is an election year, a time when politicians often entrench themselves in divisive rhetoric instead of bringing people together – a tactic President Donald Trump has already employed in light of recent events. Then, there is the coronavirus pandemic. The US has recorded nearly one-third of all Covid-19 cases and more than 105,000 deaths. That people were compelled to take to the streets instead of staying safely indoors speaks to the gravity of the situation.

All people regardless of race and social status must receive fair treatment when apprehended by police forces. No one should die for $20 in counterfeit money, or for selling cigarettes.