Relatives of Tyre Nichols, George Floyd, and Eric Garner expressed frustration with politicians for failing to pass police reform legislation or working to invalidate laws intended to reduce violent encounters with police. Philonise Floyd, brother of George Floyd, called for a federal law banning certain police tactics like chokeholds and no-knock warrants, highlighting the need for change in the wake of Floyd’s death in 2020. Despite the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act by the House in 2021, the Senate failed to reach a consensus, leaving families demanding action to prevent further tragedies.
A panel discussion at a police violence symposium in Memphis brought together the families of Nichols, Floyd, Garner, and Trayvon Martin, all united by the loss of their loved ones to police violence. These families have tirelessly worked to pass laws addressing police brutality and continue to fight for justice despite facing inaction and opposition in the political arena. The symposium, hosted by the National Civil Rights Museum, aimed to examine historical connections to systemic racial violence and highlight the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities.
After Nichols’ death in 2023 following a beating by five Black Memphis police officers, his parents supported police-related ordinances passed by the City Council to address systemic issues, including a ban on pretextual traffic stops. However, the Tennessee General Assembly passed a law that would essentially repeal these ordinances, sparking outrage and calls for compromise from Nichols’ parents. The bill now awaits the signature of Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, prompting further advocacy efforts to prevent its passage and protect policies aimed at reducing police violence in majority-Black cities.
Sybrina Fulton, mother of Trayvon Martin, has been advocating for police reform since her son’s death in 2012, pushing against laws like Florida’s stand your ground law. Fulton criticized Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for limiting education on racism and Black history in schools, highlighting the disconnect between politicians and the people they serve. Gwen Carr, mother of Eric Garner, also called for closure and justice for families impacted by police violence, emphasizing the ongoing trauma and need for systemic change to prevent future tragedies.
The families of Nichols, Floyd, Garner, and Martin continue to engage in advocacy efforts to push for police reform and justice for their loved ones. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against systemic racism and police brutality, urging politicians to listen to the voices of those affected by violence and work towards meaningful change. As they navigate the complexities of policy-making and political opposition, these families remain committed to ensuring that no other families have to endure the pain and loss they have experienced.
