The Continued Fight for Racial Justice in the United States

**George Perry Floyd Jr.** was born on October 14, 1973, in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He grew up in Houston's Third Ward, where he was raised by his mother following his parents' divorce. Floyd was known as "Perry" to his friends and family, who described him as a "gentle giant" due to his height of 6 ft 4 in[1][3]. He excelled in sports, particularly football and basketball, during his high school years at Jack Yates Senior High School[4]. Floyd pursued a career in hip-hop, performing with DJ Screw and his Screwed Up Click under the name "Big Floyd," contributing to the popularization of the "chopped and screwed" style[4]. He also worked various jobs, including as a truck driver and nightclub bouncer, and was involved with a local Christian ministry to help his community[4]. However, Floyd faced challenges, including multiple arrests and a prison sentence for armed robbery[1][3]. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd's life was tragically cut short during an arrest by Minneapolis police. The event, captured on video, sparked widespread protests against police brutality and systemic racism, becoming a pivotal moment in the Black Lives Matter movement[1][2]. His death led to significant calls for police reform and racial justice, with his name becoming synonymous with these causes[5][6]. Today, George Floyd's legacy continues to inspire movements for racial justice and police reform. His story has been documented in books and exhibitions, highlighting the systemic issues faced by Black Americans and the impact of his death on the global conversation about racial equality[5][7]. Despite his tragic end, Floyd's life and legacy serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Angela Harrelson is a nurse, activist, and author best known as the aunt and closest Minnesota relative of George Floyd, whose 2020 death in Minneapolis police custody sparked a global movement against racial injustice. Born into a large family in North Carolina, Harrelson overcame poverty and systemic racism to become the first in her family to attend college, serve as a commissioned officer in the military, and pursue a professional nursing career. She worked in mental health nursing at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota, before her life drastically changed following Floyd’s death[1][2]. After George Floyd was killed on May 25, 2020, Harrelson emerged as a prominent voice for justice, using her platform to share her family’s story and advocate for racial equity. She helped organize the annual "Rise and Remember" festivals held at George Floyd Square, a memorial site in Minneapolis. Additionally, she authored the memoir *Lift Your Voice: How My Nephew George Floyd’s Murder Changed the World*, which recounts her personal journey, the impact of Floyd’s death, and her vision for eradicating racism in America. The book intertwines themes of faith, hope, and activism, illustrating her commitment to social change[1][2][3]. Harrelson is also an experienced motivational speaker, focusing on topics related to racial justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion. She travels from Minneapolis to deliver speeches and participate in events aimed at inspiring societal transformation and healing[4]. Her ongoing relevance stems from her leadership in commemorating George Floyd’s legacy and advocating for systemic reforms in policing and race relations.