The Legacy of George Floyd’s death: An Analysis of police violence and Surveillance

As we approach the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s tragic death, it is crucial to examine the ongoing implications of this pivotal moment in American history. Floyd’s death, which occurred on May 25, 2020, sparked widespread protests and calls for justice, highlighting systemic issues within law enforcement and the justice system. However, as Alec Karakatsanis points out in a recent tweet, the aftermath of this tragedy reveals a troubling trend: police budgets have continued to increase, and the number of people killed by police has not diminished.

Historical Context of Police Violence

The death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin ignited a global movement advocating for racial justice and police reform. Floyd’s last moments, captured on camera, showcased the brutal reality of police violence, particularly against Black individuals in the United States. The outrage that followed led to protests not only in America but around the world, calling for an end to systemic racism and police brutality.

Despite the heightened awareness and public demands for change, statistics indicate that police killings have persisted at alarming rates in the years following Floyd’s death. The data shows that each year has witnessed an increase in the number of fatal encounters between police and civilians, raising questions about the effectiveness of reforms proposed in the wake of widespread protests.

The Dichotomy of Police Budgets and Public Safety

One of the most significant contradictions highlighted by Karakatsanis is the simultaneous increase in police budgets. In response to calls for defunding or reallocating resources from police departments, many municipalities have opted instead to bolster their law enforcement budgets. This trend raises concerns about priorities in public safety and community investment. Instead of addressing the root causes of crime through social programs, education, and community support, many local governments have chosen to double down on law enforcement measures.

The allocation of resources towards militarized policing and surveillance technologies not only perpetuates a cycle of violence but also normalizes a culture of punishment over rehabilitation. This approach has been met with criticism from activists and community leaders who argue that investing in mental health services, housing, and education would be far more effective in reducing crime and enhancing community well-being.

Reactionary Propaganda and the Role of Liberal Elites

Karakatsanis also points to a troubling narrative emerging from liberal elites in news and academia. This reactionary propaganda seeks to normalize the expansion of surveillance and punitive measures in the name of public safety. Instead of advocating for systemic reform, this narrative often positions increased police presence and surveillance as necessary responses to crime, thereby diverting attention from the need for comprehensive reform.

The implications of this propaganda are profound. By framing police militarization and surveillance as essential to public safety, it shifts the focus away from accountability and justice for victims of police violence. This rhetoric can create an environment where citizens become increasingly desensitized to the issues of police brutality and surveillance overreach, making it easier for systemic injustices to persist.

The Importance of Continued Advocacy

As we commemorate the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death, it is essential to continue advocating for meaningful change. The fight for racial justice and police reform must remain a priority, as the data indicates that many of the issues that sparked the movement are still prevalent. Advocacy efforts should focus on:

• Community Investment: Redirecting funds from police budgets to social services that address the root causes of crime, such as mental health care, education, and housing.
• Accountability Measures: Implementing policies that hold law enforcement accountable for misconduct, including the establishment of independent oversight bodies and the use of body cameras.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the realities of police violence and the importance of systemic reform through grassroots movements and community engagement.
• Policy Reform: Supporting legislation aimed at reducing police violence, such as banning chokeholds, implementing de-escalation training, and limiting the use of military-grade equipment by police forces.
  

  Conclusion
  

  George Floyd’s death was a catalyst for a global movement demanding justice and reform, yet the statistics following his death indicate that much work remains to be done. The increase in police budgets and the normalization of militarized surveillance underscore the need for continued advocacy and awareness around these issues.

  As we reflect on the legacy of George Floyd, it is crucial to remain steadfast in the pursuit of systemic change. The fight against police violence and the push for social justice are ongoing battles that require collective action, informed discourse, and unwavering commitment to a more equitable society. The narrative must shift from one of punishment to one of accountability, rehabilitation, and community support, ensuring that the lessons learned from Floyd’s death are not forgotten.

  In moving forward, we must challenge the status quo, engage in critical discussions, and advocate for policies that prioritize justice and community well-being over militarized policing. Only then can we honor George Floyd’s memory and work towards a future where such tragedies no longer occur.

Tomorrow is 5-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death. Police killed more people each year since and police budgets increased each year. One legacy is the reactionary propaganda by liberal elites in news and academia to normalize mass militarized surveillance and punishment: https://t.co/3Dch8ZSeES

— Alec Karakatsanis (@equalityAlec) May 24, 2025

Tomorrow is 5-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death.

The date is significant—not just as a marker of time, but as a reminder of the events that shook the world to its core. George Floyd’s death on May 25, 2020, sparked global protests and ignited a renewed conversation about systemic racism, police brutality, and the urgent need for reform. The anniversary is a moment for reflection, not only on Floyd’s life and the movement that arose in the wake of his death but also on the realities that continue to unfold in our society.

Floyd’s passing was not merely an isolated incident; rather, it was part of a larger narrative of racial injustice that has persisted for generations. This anniversary serves as a painful reminder that despite the promises of change, the statistics paint a troubling picture. Police killed more people each year since Floyd’s death, highlighting the ongoing issues surrounding law enforcement practices in America.

Police killed more people each year since.

The numbers don’t lie. Each year since that fateful day, the death toll has continued to rise. According to data from sources like The Washington Post, police killings have remained alarmingly high, with thousands of individuals losing their lives at the hands of law enforcement. This trend raises critical questions about the effectiveness of police reform and whether we are truly addressing the root causes of violence and inequality in our communities.

For many, each statistic represents a life lost—a son, a daughter, a friend. The impact of these deaths reverberates through families and communities, leaving behind a wake of grief and anger. As advocates call for accountability and transparency, it’s essential to understand the broader implications of these ongoing tragedies. The question remains: what has changed in the years following Floyd’s death?

Police budgets increased each year.

While the conversation around police reform gained momentum, the financial support for law enforcement agencies has expanded. Many cities have seen their police budgets increase each year, often at the expense of funding for social services, education, and community programs. This trend has raised eyebrows and sparked debates about the priorities of local governments.

Critics argue that increasing police budgets does not equate to increased safety. Instead, they call for a reallocation of resources towards programs that address the root causes of crime, such as mental health services, affordable housing, and education. The notion that more funding will automatically lead to better outcomes is increasingly being challenged by activists and community leaders who advocate for a holistic approach to public safety.

One legacy is the reactionary propaganda by liberal elites in news and academia.

As we reflect on the legacy of George Floyd, it’s crucial to recognize the narratives that have emerged in the media and academia. Some argue that there has been a concerted effort by liberal elites to normalize mass militarized surveillance and punishment. This perspective suggests that, rather than addressing systemic issues, the focus has shifted to maintaining the status quo through increased surveillance and policing.

In academia and news, discussions about race and policing can sometimes feel like they are being shaped by those who are far removed from the lived experiences of marginalized communities. This reactionary propaganda often serves to downplay the urgency of change and can lead to the normalization of problematic practices that perpetuate injustice. It’s essential for individuals and communities to critically engage with the information being presented and to seek out diverse voices and perspectives.

The role of media in shaping public perception cannot be understated. The portrayal of protests, police actions, and community responses can influence how society understands these complex issues. Therefore, it is vital for consumers of news to remain vigilant, questioning the narratives that are being pushed and advocating for a more equitable representation of the struggles faced by marginalized communities.

To normalize mass militarized surveillance and punishment.

The increase in police budgets often comes hand-in-hand with the expansion of surveillance technologies and militarized policing tactics. Communities across the U.S. are seeing more police presence, surveillance cameras, and even military-grade equipment being deployed in their neighborhoods. This shift raises significant concerns about civil liberties and the erosion of trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

The idea that increased surveillance equates to safety is a dangerous narrative. It suggests that monitoring and controlling populations is a solution to crime, while it can often lead to further alienation and mistrust. Rather than fostering community relationships, such measures can create an environment of fear and oppression.

Moreover, the normalization of these practices can desensitize the public to the realities of living under constant observation. It’s essential for communities to engage in dialogue about the implications of surveillance and to advocate for policies that prioritize human rights and community well-being.

Reflecting on the future.

As we mark the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s death, it’s crucial to engage in meaningful conversations about the future of policing, community safety, and social justice. The discussions that emerged in the wake of Floyd’s death have opened the door to critical dialogues about race, equity, and justice in America. However, these conversations must be ongoing and inclusive.

Community engagement is key to fostering change. It’s important for individuals to participate in local governance, advocate for policy changes, and hold elected officials accountable. Grassroots movements, community organizations, and coalitions play a vital role in pushing for reforms that address the systemic issues underlying police violence and racial injustice.

Moreover, education is a powerful tool in this fight. By informing ourselves and others about the realities of policing, racism, and social justice, we can work towards a more equitable society. This includes understanding the historical context of these issues and supporting initiatives that seek to dismantle oppressive systems.

Conclusion: A call to action.

The legacy of George Floyd is not just about remembering a tragic event; it’s about committing to a vision for a more just and equitable society. As we reflect on the past five years, we must also look forward, determined to create a future where lives are valued, and justice is not just a dream but a reality.

Engaging with our communities, advocating for policy changes, and challenging the narratives that seek to maintain the status quo are all essential steps in this journey. Let’s honor George Floyd’s memory by working towards a world where everyone can live freely and safely, without fear of violence or oppression.

As we move forward, let’s keep the conversation alive, ensuring that the issues surrounding police violence, racial injustice, and community safety remain at the forefront of our collective consciousness. Together, we can strive for a better future for all.