Minneapolis Uprising: The Murder of George Floyd

October 2021

Minneapolis Uprising – October 2021

October 1–31, 2021 Minneapolis

October 2021 in Minneapolis unfolded during the final stretch of campaigning before the November ballot vote on restructuring public safety. Protesters organized high-visibility rallies, sign-waving events, and canvassing efforts to mobilize voters.

George Floyd Square continued to host gatherings and public messaging tied to the charter amendment. Campaign signage and protest materials became increasingly prominent throughout neighborhoods.

The month reflected concentrated organizing energy, with protest activity closely linked to electoral strategy and voter turnout efforts.

Key dates

Early October 2021 — Coordinated rallies and voter outreach efforts intensify.
Mid-October 2021 — Public messaging campaigns dominate neighborhood corridors.
Late October 2021 — Final protest gatherings ahead of Election Day.

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Empty Hennepin Ave Revamp SalonSpa — October 1, 2021 — The Uptown Theater, a historic movie theater on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis. Opened in 1926, the theater was designed by renowned architect William H. Wheeler and originally served as a vaudeville house before transitioning to film screenings. Adjacent to the theater is ReVamp! Salonspa, a modern business occupying a space within the same block.

Seven Points mall with boarded up entrance in Minneapolis — October 1, 2021 — Seven Points Mall, located at the intersection of Hennepin Avenue and Lake Street in Minneapolis, is shown boarded up at night. The mall's facade is covered with graffiti, including a tag that reads "Deona Marie." On June 13, 2021, 31-year-old Deona Marie Knajdek was killed when a driver accelerated into a group of demonstrators gathered in Minneapolis’ Uptown neighborhood during ongoing protests over the killing of Winston “Boogie” Smith Jr. Protesters had blocked the intersection of West Lake Street and Girard Avenue with vehicles and barricades when Nicholas Kraus drove a Jeep Cherokee into the crowd at high speed, killing Knajdek and injuring several others. Kraus was later charged with second-degree murder, two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon, and criminal vehicular operation. In 2023, he pleaded guilty to murder and assault charges and was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for the attack.

Sons of Norway and Burton on Lake Street — October 1, 2021 — The Daymark apartment building, located on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis, is shown here with protective plastic security boards covering its windows. This building was constructed on the site of the former Sons of Norway building, which was demolished.

CRG security truck parked at Seven Points Mall in Minneapolis with portable lighting equipment nearby. — October 3, 2021 — Conflict Resolution Group (CRG), a private security firm based in Minneapolis, operated this military surplus truck as part of overnight security patrols at Seven Points Mall. Portable lighting stands and orange extension cords set up nearby powered the truck's equipment after dark.

Chalk reading Where is the footage Winston Smith protest — October 3, 2021 — Chalk art on Lake Street in Minneapolis reads "WHERE'S FOOTAGE?" and "NO GOOD COPS IN A RACIST SYSTEM." This protest was in response to the shooting death of Winston Smith by law enforcement on June 3rd, 2021. The "Minneapolis Uprising" refers to the widespread protests that occurred in Minneapolis following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, and continued in response to other instances of police brutality and racial injustice.

Vigil in Minneapolis with Abolish The Police protest flyers — October 3, 2021 — A vigil was held in Minneapolis to commemorate the four-month anniversary of Winston Smith's death. Smith was killed by a federal task force on top of a parking ramp. The vigil featured "Abolish The Police" signs and "We Keep Us Safe" messaging, reflecting ongoing protests and calls for police reform.

Seven Points Doesn't Want You To Know Chalk — October 3, 2021 — Chalk writing that reads "Seven Points Doesn't Want You To Know" written outside the parking ramp where Winston Smith was killed by law enforcement on June 3rd, 2021.

Protester with a megaphone on Lake Street Winston Smith protest — October 3, 2021 — Protesters gather at the intersection of Lake Street and Girard Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis on the four-month anniversary of Winston Smith's death. Smith, a Black man, was killed by federal law enforcement officers on June 4, 2021, on top of a parking garage at this location. The protest is part of ongoing demonstrations and vigils held in Minneapolis following Smith's death and in response to police brutality.

Abolish The Police We Keep Us Safe protest flyer — October 3, 2021 — Posters advocating for the abolition of the police are displayed on a street pole in Uptown Minneapolis. The text reads "Abolish the Police" and "We Keep Us Safe." These posters appeared in the context of protests and unrest following the killing of Winston Smith by federal law enforcement officers in June. The location is near the parking ramp where the incident occurred, highlighting the community's response to police violence and their calls for alternative safety measures.

Winston Smith Vigil at Lake and Girard with candles — October 3, 2021 — A vigil is held at the Seven Points Mall parking ramp in Minneapolis, four months after Winston Smith was killed there. The vigil includes candles, flowers, and signs, one of which reads "WINSTON SMITH WAS ASSASSINATED." Smith's death on June 3, 2021, sparked protests and contributed to ongoing discussions about police conduct and accountability in the city. The parking ramp is a multi-level structure located in the Uptown area of Minneapolis, a neighborhood that has been a focal point for activism and community organizing.

94 Arrestee Legal Support flyer at GFS — October 3, 2021 — A flyer for "I-94 Arrestee Legal Support" is posted at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. The flyer, dated October 1 through November 5, 2021, advertises weekly Wednesday sessions where lawyers from organizations including the ACLU and National Lawyer's Guild would explain legal options offered by the Minneapolis City Attorney. Restorative Circle Keepers were also present to explain the purpose of Circles. George Floyd Square became a significant site of protest and community organizing following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

612 Mash Truck at George Floyd Square — October 3, 2021 — A graffiti-covered van, identified as the "612 Mash Truck," is parked at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, became a focal point for protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The van itself is adorned with messages and symbols, including "612 Mash," "Minneapolis Shall Heal," and imagery related to the Black Lives Matter movement. This vehicle serves as a visual representation of community activism and resilience in the wake of racial injustice.

Frey and Walz are Cowards protest sign — October 3, 2021 — A protest sign in Uptown Minneapolis reads "Frey and Walz Are Cowards." This message is directed at Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, likely referencing their responses to protests and civil unrest. The sign's placement in Uptown, a neighborhood that experienced significant activity during the 2020 Minneapolis uprising, underscores the political climate of the time. The graffiti on the adjacent wall, including references to "Smith," likely alludes to Winston Smith, whose death in police custody in 2021 was a catalyst for renewed protests in the city.

Where is the footage Winston Smith protest sign — October 3, 2021 — Protest signs are displayed on a chain-link fence surrounding Seven Points Mall in Minneapolis. The signs, including "Where is the footage?" and "No Justice No Street," reflect ongoing public outcry following the death of Winston Smith by law enforcement four months prior. Another sign advocates for abolishing the police, stating "We Keep Us Safe." These messages highlight community demands for accountability and systemic change in the wake of police violence.

Winston Smith Was Assassinated Here Vigil — October 3, 2021 — A vigil is held at the corner of Lake Street and Girard Avenue in Minneapolis for Winston Smith, who was killed four months prior. The memorial is located outside the parking ramp where Smith died at the top. "Winston Smith was assassinated here" is written in purple and pink spray paint on a concrete pillar at the site. The vigil includes numerous candles and floral arrangements, a common practice for public mourning and remembrance.

Destroyed 7Sigma Factory in Minneaolis — October 5, 2021 — The 7-Sigma facility, located near the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct, was destroyed by arson during the protests that followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The building's destruction became a focal point of the unrest, symbolizing broader anger and frustration within the community. The site has since been fenced off, awaiting future development or demolition.

Rebuilt Midtown Corner on East 26th in Minneapolis — October 5, 2021 — The Midtown Corner affordable housing project, a six-story development in Minneapolis, is nearing completion. Construction was significantly impacted when the building, then under development, was destroyed during unrest in the city. The project's reconstruction signifies a commitment to providing affordable housing in the Midtown area, despite the challenges faced during its development.

Rebuilt AutoZone With Open Sign — October 6, 2021 — The AutoZone on East Lake Street in Minneapolis is shown here after its reopening following the 2020 Uprising. This store was notably the first building to catch fire during the unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd.

Floyds Free Food Farm Sign — October 6, 2021 — A handmade sign reading "Floyd's Free Food Farm" is displayed near the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct. This sign emerged in the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, during which the Third Precinct building was a focal point of protests. The "Free Food Farm" initiative aimed to provide community support and resources in the wake of civil unrest and the ongoing pandemic. The sign's placement near the police precinct served as a visible symbol of community resilience and mutual aid in a time of significant social upheaval.

No Encampment Evictions Yard Sign in Minneapolis — October 6, 2021 — A yard sign reading "I SUPPORT MY NEIGHBORS IN TENTS, NO ENCAMPMENT EVICTIONS" is displayed on Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis. The sign reflects community sentiment regarding homelessness and housing insecurity, particularly in the context of encampment evictions. The presence of such signs indicates local activism and advocacy for unhoused individuals. The bicycle racks in the foreground, also bearing "Minnehaha Avenue" inscriptions, suggest this is a public space within the neighborhood.

Photo of Dolal Idd on a Cedar Ave memorial — October 6, 2021 — A memorial for Dolal Idd is pictured on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis. Idd was killed by Minneapolis Police on December 30, 2020, after officers claimed he fired at them from his car at a Holiday Gas Station. His death, occurring shortly before the new year, became a focal point of protests and unrest in the city, echoing sentiments from the Minneapolis Uprising of 2020.

We Need Moore CIty Council Yard Sign — October 6, 2021 — A yard sign for Mickey Moore's City Council campaign in Minneapolis's 9th Ward is displayed at night. The sign, which reads "We Need Moore" and lists "Honest * Fair * Responsive" and "Real Change for Better Treatment," indicates a local election. The presence of yard signs is a common method for candidates to gain visibility and communicate their platform to constituents in residential areas.

Burn This Shit Down Graffiti in Minneapolis — October 6, 2021 — Graffiti reading "Burn this shit down" was spray-painted in South Minneapolis on the four-month anniversary of Winston Smith's death. Smith, a Black man, died in June 2020 after being shot by Minneapolis police. The phrase "Fuck 12" is also visible, a common anti-police slogan. This act of vandalism occurred during a period of heightened protest and unrest in Minneapolis following the murder of George Floyd.

George Floyd Square shacks at impound lot — October 9, 2021 — Warming shelters, constructed by activists, were removed from George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on June 3rd. The shelters, which bore slogans such as "Abolish Kill The Police" and "Global Abolition," were located at the Minneapolis Impound Lot. The removal occurred amidst ongoing protests and discussions surrounding police reform and abolition in the city, following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Fuck Your Property Graffiti — October 9, 2021 — Graffiti adorns concrete barriers at the site where Winston Smith died on June 3, 2021, in Minneapolis. Smith was killed by law enforcement officers during an attempted arrest at a parking garage on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis. The surrounding area, particularly Lake Street, became a focal point for protests and unrest following the killing of George Floyd in May 2020 and continued to be a site of activism and expression in the aftermath of Smith's death. The graffiti, including messages like "Winston Smith" and "Stop the Cover Up," reflects the community's response to the incident and broader calls for accountability.

Community Control Of The Police at Open Streets — October 10, 2021 — A sign reading "COMMUNITY CONTROL OF THE POLICE SIGN FOR CPAC HERE" is displayed at a tent during the Minneapolis Open Streets event on Lyndale Avenue in 2021. The "Minneapolis Uprising" of 2020, which followed the murder of George Floyd, brought increased attention to calls for police reform and community oversight. CPAC, likely referring to the Community-Police Advisory Council or a similar organization, was present at the event to gather support and distribute information. The "Open Streets" initiative temporarily closes major streets to vehicle traffic, transforming them into public spaces for community engagement and activities.

No Cops No Judges No Prison Total Abolition banner — October 10, 2021 — During the Open Streets Lyndale event in 2021, a home on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis displayed a banner advocating for total abolition. The banner, reading "No Cops, No Judges, No Prison Total Abolition," reflects sentiments that gained prominence following the Minneapolis Uprising of 2020. This movement called for significant reforms and reimagining of policing and the justice system. Open Streets Lyndale is an annual event that closes major streets to cars, allowing people to walk, bike, and engage in community activities.

Jacob Frey Yard Sign at Open Streets Lyndale — October 10, 2021 — A Jacob Frey for Mayor of Minneapolis yard sign is displayed alongside a "No Justice No Peace" sign in Minneapolis. The "No Justice No Peace" slogan became prominent during protests and social justice movements, reflecting a demand for systemic change. The presence of both signs during the Open Streets Lyndale Avenue event suggests a complex political and social climate in the city. Jacob Frey was elected Mayor of Minneapolis in 2017 and re-elected in 2021.

CRG GI Joke Winston Smith Protest Graffiti — October 10, 2021 — Concrete barricades, erected around the parking garage where Winston Smith was killed on June 3, 2021, bear graffiti referencing the incident. One message reads "CRG = G.I. Joke," referring to the private security firm Conflict Resolution Group (CRG), while another states "WINSTON SMITH WAS ASSASSINATED BLOOD ON YOUR HANDS SAY HIS NAME."

Private security installing razor wire — October 10, 2021 — Private security personnel install razor wire atop fencing surrounding the parking garage at Lake & Girard in Minneapolis. This action occurred on June 7, 2021, the day before the County Attorney announced that no charges would be filed against the officers involved in the fatal shooting of Winston Smith on June 3rd. Smith, a federal task force informant, was killed during an encounter with officers, sparking protests and calls for accountability.

Spirit Halloween Minneapolis Police Station — October 10, 2021 — Banners reading "Avenge Indigenous Children" and "Spirit Halloween" are displayed on the barricaded perimeter of the former Minneapolis Police Third Precinct. The building was set ablaze during protests that erupted following the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. The precinct, located in the Powderhorn Park neighborhood, was a focal point of unrest and has remained a symbol of the protests against police brutality. The "Spirit Halloween" banner, featuring a grim reaper figure and the text "Opening Soon!", was placed on the site after the building's destruction.

Security fencing and wrap around Seven Points Mall ramp — October 11, 2021 — Security fencing surrounds the Seven Points Mall parking garage at the intersection of Lake Street and Girard Avenue in Minneapolis. The increased security measures were in place the day before the county attorney announced that no charges would be filed against officers involved in the June 3, 2021, shooting death of Winston Smith. The officers were part of a federal task force serving a warrant at the time of the incident. The area has been a site of protests and unrest, particularly following Smith's death and the Minneapolis Uprising of 2020.

Secyruty fencing and Libertine at Seven Points Mall — October 11, 2021 — The Seven Points Mall parking garage in Minneapolis, located on Lake Street, is shown following an incident on June 3rd. New security fencing and protective wrap have been installed on the structure. The area, which was the site of the death of Winston Smith, has been marked with graffiti including "EXPOSE" and "KOPS," reflecting sentiments from the Minneapolis Uprising and broader protests concerning police conduct.

Nicollet Ave Stop N Shop Now Open — October 11, 2021 — The Stop N Shop on Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis has reopened following damage sustained during the civil unrest of 2020. The store is situated across from the Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct, a location that became a focal point during the protests. Its reopening signifies a return to normalcy for the local business and the surrounding community after a period of significant disruption.

Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct fencing and barricades — October 11, 2021 — Security fencing and concrete barricades surround the Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct building on Nicollet Avenue. The precinct is a key law enforcement facility in the city, and its security measures were heightened following the civil unrest in the summer of 2020. The barricades and fencing are indicative of the increased security protocols implemented to protect police facilities and maintain order in the surrounding urban environment. The presence of these measures highlights the complex relationship between law enforcement and the community in Minneapolis.

Downtown Minneapolis seen behind fenced in Kmart in 2021 — October 11, 2021 — The United States Postal Service branch on East Lake Street in Minneapolis occupies a building that formerly housed a K-Mart. This relocation occurred after two nearby post office branches were destroyed during the Minneapolis uprising in 2020. The building's exterior is adorned with murals and graffiti, some of which memorialize figures and events from the uprising.

Winston Smith Was Assassinated graffiti in South Minneapolis — October 11, 2021 — "Winston Smith was assassinated. Say his name" written on a bridge in South Minneapolis.

Minneapolis Police parked outside Seven Points Mall ramp — October 12, 2021 — A Minneapolis Police squad car is parked near the Lake & Girard parking ramp on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis. The area was the site of protests and unrest following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, and the "MinneapolisUprising" saw significant activity in this neighborhood. Graffiti visible on the building, including "Prosecute" and "Kops Out," reflects the sentiments expressed during that period. The "LIBERTINE" sign indicates a business in the vicinity, and the presence of a parking ramp highlights the urban infrastructure of the area.

Outreach workers in orange shirts walk past boarded storefronts on Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis at night — October 12, 2021 — Violence Interrupter Outreach Workers walk down Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis on October 12, 2021.

No Cops Abolish The Police stickers in Minneapolis — October 12, 2021 — An "Abolish The Police" sticker is affixed to a "No Turn on Red" traffic sign in Minneapolis. This act of protest occurred in the context of widespread demonstrations following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, which led to calls for police reform and abolition. The sticker, placed on public infrastructure, serves as a visual statement against police brutality and the existing system of law enforcement. The "No Turn on Red" sign itself is a common piece of urban signage designed to regulate traffic flow and enhance pedestrian safety.

Pledge to vote for rent control flyer in Minneapolis — October 12, 2021 — A poster in Minneapolis promotes a pledge to vote for rent control in the November 2nd election. The flyer, seen in Uptown Minneapolis, urges citizens to support a charter amendment that would implement rent control policies. It highlights the need for policies that cap rent increases and prevent loopholes, emphasizing that "Rent is Too High." The poster also announces a "Renters Action Assembly" to "Get Out the Vote for Question #3!" indicating a grassroots effort to influence housing policy through electoral action.

I Love That I Hate That I Love You — October 13, 2021 — Graffiti reading "I love that I hate that I love you" is visible on the pavement at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This location became a focal point of protests and activism following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square, an area formerly known as the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, was occupied by protesters for an extended period. The artwork and messages found within the square reflect the complex emotions and ongoing dialogue surrounding racial justice and police brutality in the United States.

Justice 4 George Yarn Art in Minneapolis — October 13, 2021 — Yarn art spelling "Justice 4 George" is affixed to a chain-link fence at Lake Country School in South Minneapolis.

ACAB CRG GI JOKE graffiti at Seven Points Mall — October 13, 2021 — Concrete barriers, erected as temporary barricades, bear graffiti near Seven Points Mall in Minneapolis. The markings include "ACAB," "Fuck Your Property," and "CRG=GI JOKE," alongside a tribute reading "WINSTON SMITH RIP." /smith/

George Floyd Square Youth N Power — October 14, 2021 — A yellow stone inscribed with "Youth N' Power" is situated near the Say Their Names Memorial at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This memorial site emerged from the protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square, formerly known as the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a focal point for activism and community organizing. The "Youth N' Power" stone serves as a testament to the ongoing engagement of young people in social justice movements and their role in shaping the narrative and future of the space.

The Pillar of Truth Deliverance Temple Drum Line GFS — October 14, 2021 — The Pillar of Truth Deliverance Temple Drum Line marches down Chicago Avenue at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. The square, located at the intersection of East 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a focal point for protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The street art visible on the pavement lists names of victims of police brutality, serving as a memorial and a constant reminder of the movement's origins. The drum line's presence signifies community resilience and continued activism in the area.

George Floyd Square on George Floyd's 48th Birthday — October 14, 2021 — The George Floyd Square Memorial, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street in South Minneapolis, was established following the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. The site became a focal point for protests against racial injustice and police brutality. This memorial, adorned with flowers, tributes, and artwork, serves as a space for remembrance and a testament to the ongoing movement for racial equity. It was photographed on what would have been George Floyd's 48th birthday.

Paris Stevens speaks at George Floyd Square on Floyds 48th — October 14, 2021 — Paris Stevens, cousin of George Floyd, speaks at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on what would have been George Floyd's 48th birthday. The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, has been a memorial and gathering place since Floyd's murder in May 2020. The event marks a significant date for the community that has coalesced around the memorial, continuing to advocate for racial justice and police reform.

George Floyds Family Releasing Balloons — October 14, 2021 — Family and friends of George Floyd gathered at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis to commemorate his 48th birthday. The event, organized by the George Floyd Global Memorial, included the release of balloons by Floyd's aunt Angela Harrelson, his cousin Paris Stevens, and Jeanelle Austin. George Floyd Square has become a significant site of remembrance and activism following Floyd's murder in May 2020.

Metasota Performing On George Floyds 48th Birthday — October 14, 2021 — Rapper Metasota performs at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on May 25, 2024, which would have been George Floyd's 50th birthday. The square, formerly known as the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a focal point of protests and a symbol of racial justice movements following Floyd's murder in 2020. The event honors Floyd's memory and continues the ongoing dialogue around racial equity and community healing in the city.

Known MPLS performs at George Floyd Square — October 14, 2021 — Known MPLS performs at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on what would have been George Floyd's 48th birthday. The performance took place at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, a site that became a focal point for protests and activism following Floyd's murder in 2020. The square has since been a space for community gatherings and remembrance. This event highlights the ongoing cultural significance of the square as a place for both commemoration and artistic expression.

Candles Lit At George Floyd Square on Georges 48th — October 14, 2021 — On what would have been George Floyd's 48th birthday, individuals gathered at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis to light candles. This site, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a focal point for protests and a memorial following Floyd's murder in May 2020. The square has since evolved into a space for community remembrance and activism, reflecting the ongoing impact of the events of 2020.

Caretaker lights candles at George Floyd Memorial — October 14, 2021 — A caretaker lights candles at the George Floyd Memorial, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street in Minneapolis. This site became a focal point for protests and activism following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The memorial serves as a space for remembrance, reflection, and continued calls for racial justice. It is adorned with flowers, artwork, and messages, including "We Will Not Forget" and "Lives On In Us All."

Lake Street Station Post Office Construction Starts — October 21, 2021 — Post office construction beginning on Lake Street Station. The garage portion will remain.

Night view of the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis with Winston Smith graffiti on a bridge wall. — October 21, 2021 — The Midtown Greenway in South Minneapolis is a multi-use trail built on a former railroad corridor. The "Winston Smith" graffiti visible on the retaining wall refers to Winston Smith, a protester who was killed by federal law enforcement officers a block away from this location in June 2021.

Yard sign for Sheila Nezhad's 2021 Minneapolis mayoral campaign beside a "No Justice No Streets" poster. — October 22, 2021 — Sheila Nezhad ran for mayor of Minneapolis in 2021, one of several candidates challenging incumbent Jacob Frey. Nezhad campaigned on police reform. The adjacent "No Justice No Streets" placard, with its raised-fist imagery, echoes protest graphics that spread through Minneapolis neighborhoods following George Floyd's killing in 2020. Frey was reelected that November, though Nezhad and fellow challenger Kate Knuth together outpolled him in first-choice votes under the city's ranked-choice system.

Yard sign for Kate Knuth's 2021 Minneapolis mayoral campaign beside Halloween decorations in South Minneapolis. — October 22, 2021 — Kate Knuth, a former Minnesota state legislator, ran for mayor of Minneapolis in the 2021 municipal election. She campaigned on climate policy and public safety reform, finishing behind incumbent Jacob Frey in a ranked-choice race that also included Sheila Nezhad and Kate Knuth herself as leading challengers. A "Risa Hustad" sign is also visible in a nearby window; Hustad ran for a seat on the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation that same year.

Campaign mailer for Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey featuring him speaking beside a uniformed police officer. — October 22, 2021 — Jacob Frey has served as mayor of Minneapolis since 2018, winning a second term in the November 2021 election. This campaign mailer pairs his image with a uniformed Minneapolis police officer and the message "We need real reform and safer neighborhoods. Keep Mayor Frey working for us." Frey's re-election bid came roughly 18 months after the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, an event that pushed policing policy to the center of the city's politics. Minneapolis voters that same November also rejected a ballot measure that would have replaced the police department with a new Department of Public Safety, leaving Frey's more incremental reform platform intact.

Minnehaha Avenue Open Streets Banner — October 24, 2021 — A banner reading "On Minnehaha, We Celebrate" hangs across Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis, during the 2021 Open Streets event. The event coincided with the city's election, and the presence of numerous candidates and discussions about ballot questions like the strong mayor policy, public safety, and rent control were prominent. The backdrop includes the Minneapolis Police Third Precinct building, which was barricaded with concrete barriers and barbed wire, reflecting the ongoing tensions and community responses following the 2020 Minneapolis uprising.

Expand Public Safety YES ON 2 Yard Sign — October 24, 2021 — A "YES ON 2" yard sign advocating for a Department of Public Safety is displayed on Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis. The sign, visible during an Open Streets event, reflects a local political initiative to restructure public safety services. The "Black Lives Matter" sign in the window of the adjacent building, "Two Bettys Green Clean," suggests the broader context of social justice movements active in the city at the time. Open Streets events, which temporarily close streets to vehicles to encourage walking and biking, often serve as platforms for community engagement and political expression.

Riots Work Ya Nerds Graffiti — October 24, 2021 — Graffiti reading "Riots Work Ya Nerds" is spray-painted on utility boxes along Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis. The message appeared during a period of civil unrest in the city, following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Minnehaha Avenue is a major thoroughfare in South Minneapolis, known for its vibrant community and businesses. The graffiti reflects the sentiments expressed by some during the protests and uprisings that occurred in the summer of 2020.

Minneapolis Police at Open Streets Minnehaha Ave — October 24, 2021 — Minneapolis Police officers were present at the Open Streets Minnehaha Avenue event, a community gathering that temporarily closes streets to vehicular traffic to encourage walking, cycling, and local business engagement. These events are designed to foster community interaction and promote active transportation within the city's neighborhoods. The presence of law enforcement at such events is common for ensuring public safety and managing crowds. Minnehaha Avenue is a significant thoroughfare in Minneapolis, known for its commercial activity and residential areas.

Minneapolis Police Squad Car and Abolish The Police — October 24, 2021 — A Minneapolis Police Department squad car passes a mural on Minnehaha Avenue that reads "Abolish The Police." The mural, painted on plywood covering a building, appeared in the context of widespread protests and calls for police reform following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis in May 2020. The "Open Streets" event, which temporarily closes streets to vehicles for community use, was concluding as the police vehicle drove by.

MPLS IS US poster in Uptown — October 25, 2021 — Posters promoting voter turnout are displayed on a graffiti-covered wall in Uptown Minneapolis. The "mpls is us" campaign, active around the November 2nd election, aimed to encourage civic participation. The posters feature the slogan "We have the tools to make imagination a reality in our city," alongside imagery related to voting and community. This initiative reflects efforts to engage residents in the electoral process within the urban environment.

Laundromat storefront at 3225 Nicollet Avenue displaying washing machines behind blue-framed windows with colorful signage. — October 25, 2021 — Coin-operated laundromats like this one at 3225 Nicollet Avenue are a fixture of South Minneapolis commercial corridors, offering self-service washers and dryers to renters and residents without in-unit machines.

George Floyd Square Pumpkin Carving — October 27, 2021 — A pumpkin carving at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis.

George Floyd Square and Halloween Pumpkins — October 27, 2021 — Pumpkins carved with "GF" and a raised fist are displayed at The People's Way at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This area has been a site of protest and community organizing since the killing of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. The "People's Way" signage and "Free Gas" placard reflect the ongoing activism and community support initiatives established in the square.

Lake & Park Grocery on Lake Street — October 28, 2021 — Lake & Park Grocery on Lake Street in South Minneapolis is seen on a rainy night in late October 2020. This corner store serves the local community and accepts EBT and WIC, indicating its role in providing essential goods. The photograph was taken just six days before the 2020 Minneapolis municipal election, a period marked by significant public debate and spending on issues such as mayoral control, public safety, and rent control. The presence of the grocery store on Lake Street, an area that experienced significant unrest and rebuilding following the murder of George Floyd, adds a layer of context to the image.

George Floyd Square Murphy Ranks Barricades — October 29, 2021 — The Murphy Ranks memorial at George Floyd Square on Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is seen after an attempt by Minneapolis Public Works to clear the area. This memorial, along with barricades and other elements, became a focal point of community expression and remembrance following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The area evolved into a space for protest and public gathering, reflecting the ongoing impact of the Minneapolis Uprising.

Rest In Peace Deona Marie June 13 2021 — October 31, 2021 — A memorial sign is affixed to a chain-link fence surrounding Seven Points Mall in Uptown Minneapolis. The sign reads "Rest in Peace" and "June 13, 2021," along with a message stating that Deona Marie was killed while protesting against police brutality and urging donations to support her children. The sign includes a photograph of Marie and QR codes for her story and donation page. This memorial reflects the ongoing impact of the Minneapolis Uprising and the broader movement against police violence.

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