Minneapolis Uprising: The Murder of George Floyd

October 2020

George Floyd Square and Chauvin Bail Protests

October 1–31, 2020 Minneapolis

October 2020 in Minneapolis unfolded amid sustained protest activity and rising political tension ahead of the national election. Protesters continued organizing marches, rallies, and gatherings focused on police accountability, prosecutorial timelines, and long-term structural reform. Public protest linked local demands for justice with broader national conversations about racial inequality and democratic governance.

As Election Day approached, security preparations and boarded storefronts became more visible throughout parts of the city amid concerns about potential unrest. At the same time, protesters organized sign-waving events, street rallies, and community meetings that emphasized participation, accountability, and the direction of local and federal leadership.

George Floyd Square remained a focal point of protest and memorialization. Volunteers and protesters continued maintaining the intersection while hosting gatherings centered on remembrance, strategy, and calls for systemic change. October reflects a period of sustained protest momentum bridging the summer uprising and the heightened uncertainty of the November election.

Key dates

Early October 2020 — Ongoing protests and street rallies continue across Minneapolis.
Mid-October 2020 — Increased public discussion and visible security preparations ahead of the November election.
October 2020 — Continued protest presence and memorial activity at George Floyd Square.
Late October 2020 — Expanded organizing and neighborhood protest events in the final days before Election Day.

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A mural on the side of the former Kmart — *October 1, 2020* — A mural featuring a Native American chief and the quote "Let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children" is displayed on the side of a former K-Mart building on Nicollet Avenue in South Minneapolis.

*October 2, 2020* — A Minneapolis Police Officer under the burned out Wells Fargo Bank on Nicollet Ave. The bank sits across the street from the Fifth Precinct and was burned during unrest.

Panda ACAB Evict The Cops — *October 3, 2020* — A building wall in South Minneapolis displays both a community mural and protest graffiti. The mural, featuring a panda holding a "HOPE" balloon and Chinese characters for "hope", is painted on a brick section. Adjacent to it, graffiti on a painted concrete block wall reads "ACAB" and "EVICT THE COPS".

*October 3, 2020* — The phrase "Live Laugh Loot" is spray-painted on the sidewalk in front of a damaged US Bank branch located on Lake Street in Midtown Minneapolis.

Cleared out AutoZone lot — *October 4, 2020* — The cleared site of the former AutoZone retail store stands on Lake Street at Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis. This commercial building was destroyed during the widespread protests and unrest that occurred in the city following the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd.

Riot damaged Dominos Pizza store — *October 4, 2020* — A Domino's Pizza retail store in Minneapolis stands damaged by fire, secured by a chain-link fence and marked with graffiti. This building was affected during the civil unrest that followed the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd.

Smoke floating through Minneapolis — *October 4, 2020* — Smoke from a vacant home fire on South 4th Avenue rises over the Minneapolis skyline in the early morning hours of October 4th, 2020. This incident occurred during the Minneapolis Uprising, a period of significant civil unrest and protests in the city.

No KKKops No Pipelines banner — *October 4, 2020* — A protest banner displaying the message "NO KKKOPS NO PIPELINES" is affixed to the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge in Minneapolis. This cable-stayed bridge, completed in 2007, is a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle crossing over Hiawatha Avenue, named for former U.S. Representative Martin Olav Sabo.

Nordstrom Rack boarded up at IDS Center — *October 4, 2020* — The Nordstrom Rack store is located within the IDS Center, a prominent skyscraper in downtown Minneapolis. Its street-level windows are covered with white-painted boards, installed following widespread civil unrest and property damage that occurred in August 2020.

Flagship Target store boarded up on Nicollet Mall — *October 4, 2020* — The Target Flagship Store on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis stands with its entrance boarded with plywood.

WCCO TV boarded up in Downtown Minneapolis — *October 4, 2020* — The WCCO-TV building on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis is shown with its exterior boarded up.

*October 5, 2020* — The State Theatre, a historic performing arts venue on Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis, features a marquee displaying a quote from Martin Luther King Jr. The message, "The time is always right to do what is right".

Mobile Walgreens pharmacy in Minneapolis — *October 5, 2020* — A temporary Walgreens mobile pharmacy stands illuminated on Lake Street in Minneapolis. This modular facility was established in response to widespread damage and looting of retail stores, including pharmacies, during the 2020 protests and civil unrest in Minneapolis. It provided essential pharmaceutical services to the community when many permanent drug stores were unable to operate.

Lisa Bender Must Go graffiti — *October 5, 2020* — Graffiti reading "Lisa Bender Must Go" is visible on the boarded-up windows of Fox Den Salon at 2727 Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis. Lisa Bender served as the Minneapolis City Council President during a period of significant social and political unrest in the city.

Defaced George Floyd mural — *October 5, 2020* — The George Floyd mural is prominently displayed on the exterior wall of Cup Foods, located on East 38th Street within George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This site holds profound historical significance as the location where George Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, an event that catalyzed global protests against racial injustice and police brutality.

*October 7, 2020* — Protests outside the Minneapolis police 5th precinct police station as Derek Chauvin makes bail.

Protesters raise fists outside 5th precinct police station — *October 7, 2020* — Protesters kneel on Nicollet Avenue outside the Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct. This protest occurred following the pre-trial release of former police officer Derek Chauvin on bond, who was charged in the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd.

*October 7, 2020* — Minnesota State Patrol arrive to arrest protesters gathering at the Minneapolis Police 5th precinct after Derek Chauvin was released on bail.

*October 7, 2020* — Minneapolis Police along with State Patrol Conservation Officers arrive to the 5th Precinct with a large amount of tactical gear to clear out and arrest 51 people protesting after Derek Chauvin is released on bail.

Jail not bail for killer kkkops — *October 8, 2020* — Protesters gathered outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Downtown Minneapolis, advocating for "Jail Not Bail" following the release of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin on bond. Chauvin was charged in connection with the May 25th death of George Floyd.

Hennepin County Government Center waterfall — *October 8, 2020* — Protesters gather outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Downtown Minneapolis on October 8, 2020. This protest occurred the day after former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin was released from jail on bond. Chauvin was charged in the May 25, 2020, death of George Floyd, an event that sparked widespread protests in Minneapolis and globally. The Hennepin County Government Center serves as the primary administrative and judicial hub for Hennepin County, housing courts and government offices.

Protesters outside downtown police station — *October 8, 2020* — Protesters march through Downtown Minneapolis in October 2020, the day after Derek Chauvin was released on bail. This march was part of sustained protests against police brutality and racial injustice, which intensified following the killing of George Floyd earlier that year. Participants carried signs demanding 'Justice for George Floyd' and advocating for the 'Defund And Abolish' movement, reflecting widespread calls for systemic change.

Protests after Derek Chauvin is released from jail — *October 8, 2020* — A protest sign reading "Hey Derek you forgot your hat!" is held during a march in downtown Minneapolis, the day after former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin was released on bond. The sign also features a drawing resembling a Ku Klux Klan hood, with additional text including "BREAK THE THIN BLUE LINE" and "ARREST KILLER KKK OPS?". Protesters marched towards the Minneapolis Police 1st Precinct to voice opposition to Chauvin's release and demand police accountability.

Protesters walk by the 1st precinct police station — *October 8, 2020* — Protesters march past the Minneapolis First Precinct in Downtown Minneapolis. This march occurred the day after former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin was released on bond. Chauvin had been charged in the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd, an event that sparked widespread protests against police brutality and racial injustice.

Toussaint Morrison speaks outside of Minneapolis City Hall — *October 8, 2020* — Toussaint Morrison addresses a crowd during a protest in Downtown Minneapolis. This march took place the day after former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin was released on bond. Chauvin was charged in connection with the May 25th death of George Floyd in South Minneapolis.

MPLS loves PDX graffiti — *October 8, 2020* — The phrase "MPLS <3 PDX" is spray-painted on concrete barriers in Downtown Minneapolis, positioned across from the Hennepin County Jail. This graffiti signifies a connection between Minneapolis and Portland, Oregon, two cities that experienced significant protest activity during the Minneapolis Uprising.

Minneapolis police at convention center — *October 10, 2020* — Following the destruction of the Minneapolis Third Precinct in May 2020, the Minneapolis Police Department relocated its operations to the Minneapolis Convention Center in Downtown Minneapolis.

Murals on boards of the former k-mart — *October 10, 2020* — Murals adorn the boarded-up exterior of the former K-Mart building on Nicollet Avenue in South Minneapolis.

Look down at Nicollet Mall from above — *October 12, 2020* — An aerial perspective reveals the distinctive glass-pyramid roof of the Crystal Court, a prominent indoor public plaza located within the IDS Center in downtown Minneapolis.

Food being offered at George Floyd Square — *October 14, 2020* — A community food distribution takes place at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This event, held on what would have been George Floyd's 47th birthday, provides essential supplies to local residents. Volunteers distribute a variety of provisions, including fresh produce, bread, canned goods, and diapers, from tables set up under a tent. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a focal point for protests and community organizing following George Floyd's murder in May 2020, and continues to serve as a site for mutual aid and remembrance.

Angela Harrelson speaks at George Floyd Square — *October 14, 2020* — Angela Harrelson, aunt of George Floyd, addresses a gathering at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. The event took place on what would have been George Floyd's 47th birthday, commemorating his life and the ongoing movement for racial justice. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a protest site and memorial following Floyd's murder by police in May 2020.

George Floyd’s family speaks at George Floyd Square — *October 14, 2020* — George Floyd's aunt Angela Harrelson, cousin Paris Stevens, and memorial caretaker Jeanelle Austin speak at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. They gathered to commemorate what would have been George Floyd's 47th birthday. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a community memorial and protest site following Floyd's murder by police on May 25, 2020.

Community gathers on George Floyd 47th birthday — *October 14, 2020* — A community gathering took place at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis to commemorate what would have been George Floyd's 47th birthday. A bouncy castle was set up at the Speedway gas station, a prominent location within the square, as part of the remembrance activities. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, emerged as a memorial and protest site following George Floyd's murder by Minneapolis police in May 2020.

Protesters push for community control of police — *October 16, 2020* — Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) at the University of Minnesota organized a protest in Dinkytown, Minneapolis, advocating for community control of the University of Minnesota Police Department (UMPD). The event specifically demanded the establishment of a Civilian Police Accountability Council (CPAC).

Protesters warm their hands at George Floyd Square — *October 17, 2020* — Protesters gather around a fire pit for warmth at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This site became a focal point for protests and community organizing following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, served as a sustained protest zone during the Minneapolis Uprising.

Community members at George Floyd Square — *October 17, 2020* — Community members gather under the canopy of the former Speedway gas station, now known as People's Way, within George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This site became a focal point for protests and a permanent memorial following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The People's Way station serves as a community hub, offering resources and a space for ongoing dialogue and remembrance.

US Bank is closed sign — *October 18, 2020* — A notice posted on the boarded-up US Bank branch on Lake Street in South Minneapolis announces its closure due to damage sustained during the civil unrest of May 2020. This branch, a key retail banking establishment, was significantly impacted during the widespread protests and associated riots that followed the death of George Floyd.

Snow falls on George Floyd Square — *October 20, 2020* — A community greenhouse stands covered in the first snowfall at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This structure was erected as part of ongoing community efforts at the site, which became a memorial and protest space following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The greenhouse is enclosed to protect plants and maintain a green space through the colder months. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, has served as a focal point for remembrance, activism, and community organizing since the Minneapolis Uprising.

Heavy snow falls on George Floyd Square — *October 20, 2020* — The first snowfall of the season blankets George Floyd Square at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in South Minneapolis. This site became a global focal point for protests against racial injustice following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020.

Buses do not stop here — *October 20, 2020* — George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, serves as a permanent memorial and protest site following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Amidst a snowfall, a Metro Transit bus stop sign is overlaid with a handmade message declaring "BUSES DO NOT STOP HERE: Effective: NOW Reason: We Need Justice," reflecting the community's ongoing demands.

Nekima Levy Armstrong speaks outside the 4th precinct — *October 22, 2020* — Community activist Nekima Levy Armstrong addresses a protest outside the Minneapolis Police 4th Precinct. The gathering was part of the 25th annual National Day of Protest to Stop Police Brutality, Repression and the Criminalization of a Generation. The 4th Precinct, located in North Minneapolis, has historically been a significant site for protests concerning police conduct and accountability.

Protesters holding up signs outside the 4th precinct — *October 22, 2020* — Protesters gather outside the Minneapolis Police 4th Precinct during the 25th annual National Day of Protest to Stop Police Brutality. Participants hold signs expressing dissent against the justice system and police, reflecting themes central to the Black Lives Matter movement. This annual protest, observed on October 22nd, addresses ongoing concerns regarding police conduct and systemic injustices.

Michelle Gross speaks outside the 4th precinct police station — *October 22, 2020* — Michelle Gross, founder of Communities United Against Police Brutality, addresses a gathering at the Minneapolis Fourth Precinct. The protest was organized as part of the 25th National Day of Protest to Stop Police Brutality. This location, the Minneapolis Police Fourth Precinct, has been a focal point for numerous protests against police misconduct and racial injustice in the city.

Black Lives matter protesters march through North Minneapolis — *October 22, 2020* — Protesters march during the 25th National Day of Protest to stop police brutality in North Minneapolis. Prior to the march, they gathered outside the Minneapolis police 4th precinct police station.

Chalk on the sidewalk outside the mayors home — *October 25, 2020* — Chalk art on the street outside Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's home in Northeast Minneapolis, The protest addressed the city's policies regarding homeless encampment evictions. The message, 'Jacob + Police = ", reflects public sentiment and criticism directed at the mayor and law enforcement.

Michael Toussaint at George Floyd Square — *October 25, 2020* — Michael Toussaint, father of Myon Burrell, speaks at a protest held at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. Burrell was convicted of murder in 2002, and his case has drawn widespread calls for exoneration due to concerns about the conviction. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a memorial and a site for ongoing protests and advocacy following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Myon Burrells son speaks at George Floyd Square — *October 25, 2020* — Myon Burrell Jr., son of Myon Burrell, speaks at an exoneration rally in George Floyd Square, Minneapolis. Myon Burrell Sr. was convicted of murder in 2002, and his case has since garnered significant public attention and calls for his release. The rally advocates for his exoneration, highlighting ongoing efforts to address perceived injustices within the legal system. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, serves as a prominent site for protests and community gatherings related to racial justice and police accountability in Minneapolis.

Protesters asking for the release of Myon Burrell — *October 25, 2020* — Supporters gather at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis for a protest concerning the case of Myon Burrell. Burrell was convicted of murder in 2002, and his case has drawn widespread attention, with many calling for his exoneration due to questions surrounding the investigation and evidence. George Floyd Square, located at the Speedway gas station at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a permanent memorial and site for community organizing and protest following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square continues to serve as a significant public space for addressing issues of racial justice and criminal justice reform in Minneapolis.

Elizer Darris speaks at George Floyd Square — *October 25, 2020* — Elizer Darris of the ACLU speaks at a protest for Myon Burrell at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. Supporters gathered to call for the exoneration of Myon Burrell, who was convicted of murder in 2002. His case has drawn significant attention and criticism regarding the justice system. George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, has become a prominent site for protests and calls for racial justice following the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

Protesters march down Lake Street in solidarity with Philadelphia — *October 27, 2020* — A march proceeds down Lake Street in Minneapolis, expressing solidarity with Philadelphia following the killing of Walter Wallace Jr. Participants carried signs, some advocating for "Black Lives Matter" and justice for victims of police violence, as they moved along the commercial thoroughfare. Lake Street.

Protesters again outside the 3rd precinct — *October 27, 2020* — Protesters march from South High School to the Minneapolis Third Precinct, expressing solidarity with Philadelphia following the killing of Walter Wallace Jr. in October 2020. The Minneapolis Third Precinct, which was a significant site during the 2020 protests for George Floyd, served as a symbolic location for this demonstration against police brutality. This march highlights the continued demands for police accountability and racial justice in Minneapolis and across the United States.

Protesters hold signs up after the killing of Walter Wallace — *October 27, 2020* — Protesters march on Lake Street in Minneapolis, holding signs advocating for an anti-racist future. This march, originating from South High School and heading towards the Minneapolis Third Precinct, was held in solidarity with Philadelphia following the killing of Walter Wallace Jr. Participants carried signs, including one stating 'A MAN WAS LYNCHED YESTERDAY,' reflecting ongoing calls for racial justice and accountability in the city and nationwide.

Walter Wallace Jr memorial in South Minneapolis — *October 29, 2020* — A temporary memorial for Walter Wallace Jr. stands under a light rail bridge in Minneapolis. Walter Wallace Jr. was killed by police in Philadelphia in October 2020, an event that sparked protests across the United States.

Burned out building on Lake Street — *October 29, 2020* — The remains of a commercial building on Lake Street in Minneapolis, which previously housed restaurants, stand damaged. This structure was affected during the civil unrest that occurred in May and June 2020. The unrest followed the murder of George Floyd and significantly impacted the commercial corridor around the Minneapolis Police Third Precinct.

George Floyd Square and Chauvin Bail Protests

Minneapolis Photographer