“Let us all recommit to shared solutions for confronting racism, pursuing accountability, and advancing justice…”

BURLINGAME — California Teachers Association President E. Toby Boyd issued the following statement in response to the verdict announced today in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer found guilty on all counts in the murder of George Floyd:

“The verdict reached today in the trial of Derek Chauvin delivers some important justice, but our pursuit of justice in the broader sense is just beginning. This verdict will never bring back George Floyd or heal the long history of racism and oppression in our country. Although a step in the right direction, this verdict alone will not solve the challenge of police brutality and institutionalized racism that George Floyd’s death and the death of so many others – Daunte Wright, Adam Toledo, Eric Garner, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery – have so glaringly exposed. For that, there is so much work ahead. We call on our elected leaders to hold those who ‘protect and serve’ accountable, so that everyone – no matter their race, background or where they live – may one day go about their communities without fearing for their lives or the lives of those they love. This trial has concluded, but our work has just begun. Let us all recommit to shared solutions for confronting racism, pursuing accountability, and advancing justice so that we can build a world together that is safer, more just, and more humane.

“Right now, our elected leaders have a chance to transform policing, end police brutality, and protect our civil rights. Join educators across the country by taking action today and calling on your senators to support the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. Together, we will reimagine public safety so children thrive – inside the classroom and out – and live long, healthy lives. That’s only possible in a world where everyone, regardless of race or background, can live in safety and security.”

-E. Toby Boyd

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The 310,000-member California Teachers Association is affiliated with the 3 million-member National Education Association.