Minneapolis Uprising: The Murder of George Floyd

March 2022

Minneapolis Uprising – March 2022

March 1–31, 2022 Minneapolis

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Snow-covered street in Uptown Minneapolis with the Reign building at dusk. — March 1, 2022 — Winter conditions prevail on a street in Uptown Minneapolis, with snow and ice covering the roadway and sidewalks. The "Reign" building, a notable commercial and residential complex, is visible in the background, its illuminated signage reflecting on the wet street. This area of Minneapolis, known for its vibrant commercial activity and residential neighborhoods, experiences significant winter weather that shapes daily life and urban transit.

Traffic on Hennepin Avenue at Lagoon Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis at dusk. — March 1, 2022 — Hennepin Avenue and Lagoon Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis at dusk. Hennepin Avenue has long been a central commercial and transit artery for the Uptown neighborhood. This view shows the intersection, a hub of activity, with businesses like Cowboy Slim's and a McDonald's restaurant. The presence of streetlights and vehicle traffic highlights the area's ongoing function as a center for commerce and daily life.

South Hennepin Avenue For All poster in an Uptown Minneapolis storefront window. — March 1, 2022 — A flyer posted in a storefront window in Uptown Minneapolis advocates for a "South Hennepin Avenue For All" initiative.

Rebuilt Lake Street post office on Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis at night. — March 1, 2022 — Construction continues on the new Lake Street Post Office in Minneapolis, a rebuilding project initiated after the original facility was destroyed on May 29, 2020, during civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd. The destruction of the post office, a vital service hub for the Lake Street corridor, marked a significant disruption to the community. The ongoing reconstruction symbolizes the restoration of essential services and the resilience of the neighborhood.

Lake Street post office under construction in Minneapolis at night with boarded windows and snow. — March 1, 2022 — Construction is underway on the new Lake Street Post Office in Minneapolis, a rebuilding effort following the destruction of the previous facility by fire on May 29, 2020. The structure, located on Lake Street, is a vital piece of postal infrastructure for the surrounding community. The rebuilding signifies a commitment to restoring essential services and public facilities in the area.

La Michoacana ice cream shop on Lake Street in Minneapolis at night. — March 1, 2022 — La Michoacana ice cream shop is illuminated at night on Lake Street in Minneapolis. This establishment is known for serving traditional Mexican ice cream and treats, functioning as a cultural gathering point for the community. Lake Street is a significant commercial corridor in Minneapolis, recognized for its diverse businesses and its role as a central hub, particularly noted for its involvement in the 2020 Minneapolis Uprising.

Colin Kaepernick mural at 812 East 38th Street in Minneapolis — March 1, 2022 — A mural depicting former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick kneeling is displayed on the exterior of a building at 812 East 38th Street in Minneapolis. The artwork is situated near George Floyd Square, a location that became a significant site of protest and activism following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Kaepernick, known for his protests against racial injustice and police brutality during NFL games, is honored in this mural, which serves as a visual statement within a neighborhood that has been central to discussions on racial equality and social justice.

Metro Transit bus stop sign at 8th Street and Park Avenue in Minneapolis with a security camera. — March 1, 2022 — This photograph shows a Metro Transit bus stop sign at the intersection of 8th Street and Park Avenue in Minneapolis. The sign, featuring the Metro Transit logo, indicates a stop for public transportation services. A security camera is mounted on the sign, suggesting a focus on passenger safety and monitoring within the transit system. This infrastructure is integral to the daily operations of Minneapolis's public transit network, serving commuters and visitors.

Minneapolis Public Service Center entrance at 505 Downtown in Minneapolis at night. — March 1, 2022 — The Minneapolis Public Service Center at 505 Downtown, established in 1878, serves as a consolidated hub for city government operations. The building's modern facade, featuring extensive glass and stone, houses a large seal commemorating the city's founding. This structure consolidates various municipal services, providing essential administrative functions and resources for Minneapolis residents. Its architecture reflects the city's ongoing development and commitment to accessible public services.

Net Supermarket on Nicollet Avenue in South Minneapolis at night. — March 2, 2022 — Net Supermarket, located at the corner of Nicollet Avenue in South Minneapolis, functions as a vital neighborhood convenience store. Its signage clearly advertises essential goods such as cigarettes, pop, and milk, alongside other daily necessities and convenience items. The store's prominent display of "Food Stamps" indicates its role in serving a diverse customer base and providing accessible resources. The brightly lit interior and visible product displays through large windows suggest a busy commercial operation catering to the immediate needs of the local community.

Southside Pride newspapers with an Amir Locke cover in a Minneapolis storefront window. — March 2, 2022 — A stack of "Southside Pride" newspapers, featuring the February 2022 edition, is displayed. The cover prominently shows a portrait of Amir Locke, a Minneapolis resident killed by police in January 2022. The "Southside Pride" newspaper, which serves the Southside of Minneapolis, frequently covers local community issues and events. Locke's death became a significant point of discussion regarding police brutality and accountability in Minneapolis and nationally.

Boarded-up Flanders Cycle on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis as a police SUV passes at night. — March 2, 2022 — Flanders Cycle, a bicycle shop established in 1973, is boarded up with plywood on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis. The plywood covering is a common measure taken by businesses during periods of civil unrest. A Minneapolis Police Department vehicle passes the storefront at night, reflecting the heightened tensions in the city following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The "BLM" graffiti visible on the plywood further signifies the context of the Minneapolis Uprising.

Bloody Gorgeous salon interior on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis with a reception table and hair service signs. — March 2, 2022 — The interior of Bloody Gorgeous salon, located on Lyndale Avenue in South Minneapolis, is presented. This establishment provides a range of hair services, including cuts and color treatments for both men and women. The salon's branding and offerings suggest a focus on bold and transformative styling, catering to a diverse clientele. The photograph captures the reception area, offering a glimpse into the salon's aesthetic and its role within the local commercial environment.

Schatzlein Saddle Shop window display on Lake Street in Minneapolis with mannequin, horse model, and Western wear. — March 2, 2022 — The Schatzlein Saddle Shop, a long-standing retailer of Western wear, displays its merchandise in its storefront window on Lake Street in Minneapolis in March 2022. The shop has been a fixture in the city for decades, providing clothing and gear for equestrians and enthusiasts of Western culture. The window display features a mannequin dressed in traditional Western attire, alongside boots, saddles, and other accessories, all arranged around a life-sized model of a horse. This display reflects the shop's commitment to preserving and promoting the Western lifestyle within an urban environment.

Midtown Greenway beneath the Hennepin Transit Center in Minneapolis at dusk. — March 4, 2022 — The Midtown Greenway, a former railroad corridor converted into a multi-use trail in Minneapolis, passes beneath the Hennepin Transit Center. The trail, established in the early 2000s, serves as a key east-west transportation and recreation route. The transit center, built over the trail, integrates public transportation with the urban environment. This image, taken at dusk, highlights the architectural design of the transit center and the pathway of the Greenway.

Pedestrian passes a boarded, graffiti-covered bar in South Minneapolis at night. — March 4, 2022 — A boarded-up bar in South Minneapolis displays extensive graffiti, a visual remnant of the civil unrest that occurred in the city in 2020. The plywood covering the establishment's windows and doors is marked with various tags and messages, overlaying the building's original green facade and teal window frames. This image documents the impact of the 2020 protests on urban commercial spaces, showing a period of damage and temporary closure in a neighborhood affected by social upheaval.

Cedar Cultural Center marquee in Minneapolis advertising John Moreland concert. — March 4, 2022 — The Cedar Cultural Center, established in 1989, is a prominent music and dance venue located in Minneapolis's Cedar Riverside neighborhood. It serves as a vital cultural hub, presenting a wide array of performances and events for all ages. The marquee prominently advertises upcoming concerts, including a performance by John Moreland, underscoring the center's role in showcasing contemporary artists. The Cedar Cultural Center significantly contributes to the diverse cultural fabric of the Cedar Riverside area, a neighborhood known for its rich history and multicultural community.

The Cabooze marquee on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis advertising Uncured and Living Like I'm Dead Tour. — March 8, 2022 — The Cabooze, a long-standing live music venue on Minneapolis's West Bank, is illuminated at night. The venue's marquee advertises a performance by Leo Presents featuring the bands Uncured and Living Like I'm Dead Tour. Established in 1969, The Cabooze has been a significant venue in the Minneapolis music scene, hosting a diverse array of local and national artists. The building's exterior features vibrant graffiti art, including a mural depicting a train engine, reflecting the venue's distinctive character and its role in the city's cultural fabric.

Ragstock neon storefront on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis at night. — March 8, 2022 — The neon sign for Ragstock, a vintage and used clothing store, glows on Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis. This establishment, known for its selection of new and used apparel, contributes to the area's reputation as a center for independent businesses and alternative fashion. Uptown Minneapolis has historically been a dynamic commercial and cultural district, characterized by its unique shops and community events. The prominent neon display of Ragstock enhances the neighborhood's distinctive streetscape and draws shoppers seeking affordable, retro clothing.

Minneapolis teachers and support staff march during a 2023 strike demanding mental health supports, smaller classes, and higher wages. — March 10, 2022 — Educators from Minneapolis Public Schools marched through downtown Minneapolis on the third day of their strike. The strike, which began on March 8, 2023, involved over 4,000 teachers and support staff. Key demands included increased mental health support for students, smaller class sizes, and higher wages. The strike concluded on March 17, 2023, with a tentative agreement that addressed many of the union's concerns.

Minneapolis City Council Member Robin Wonsley speaks at a teachers strike protest supporting Minneapolis Public Schools educators. — March 10, 2022 — Minneapolis City Council Member Robin Wonsley speaks at a protest in support of the Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) teachers strike. The strike, which began in March 2023, involved thousands of educators and support staff demanding improved compensation, working conditions, and student resources.

Minneapolis Public Schools teachers and staff hold signs during a downtown strike march on March 11, 2023, demanding better pay and smaller class sizes. — March 10, 2022 — Educators and support staff from Minneapolis Public Schools marched through downtown Minneapolis on March 11, 2023, during the third day of a strike. The work stoppage, which began on March 8, involved thousands of union members advocating for better pay, smaller class sizes, and increased mental health support for students.

Thousands of Minneapolis Public Schools teachers and supporters march on Nicollet Mall during a 2023 strike demanding higher wages, smaller classes, and mental health support. — March 10, 2022 — Thousands of Minneapolis educators and supporters marched on Nicollet Mall on March 10, 2023, the third day of a strike that involved over 4,000 teachers and staff. The strike, which began on March 8, 2023, highlighted demands for smaller class sizes, increased pay, and improved student mental health support.

Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct at Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis behind fencing at dusk. — March 15, 2022 — The Minneapolis Police Department's 5th Precinct is situated on Nicollet Avenue. This facility is a key component of the city's law enforcement infrastructure, serving a substantial area and its residents. The precinct became a focal point of public attention following the 2020 Minneapolis Uprising, which led to increased scrutiny of police practices and community relations. The presence of fencing around the building indicates heightened security measures, a response to events and ongoing public safety concerns.

Minneapolis City Hall clock tower illuminated at night in downtown Minneapolis. — March 16, 2022 — The Minneapolis City Hall Clock Tower, a Beaux-Arts structure completed in 1909, is illuminated at night. This building has served as the seat of Minneapolis city government for over a century and remains a prominent landmark. The tower's clock faces are visible against the dark sky, highlighting its architectural significance. The building has been a backdrop to significant historical moments, including protests in downtown Minneapolis in 2020.

Fire pit at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis at night. — March 17, 2022 — A fire pit burns at George Floyd Square, also known as "The People's Way," in Minneapolis. This location became a significant site for protests and community organizing following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The fire pit serves as a gathering point and a symbol of resilience and community presence within the area. It represents a space for warmth, reflection, and ongoing dialogue among those who frequent the square.

Larry Mosby memorial at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, with candles and portraits against a mural. — March 17, 2022 — A memorial for Larry Mosby is displayed at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. Mosby died a week prior to this photograph, inside the occupied space. The memorial features portraits of Mosby and other individuals, along with candles and flowers, set against vibrant murals that have become a hallmark of the square. George Floyd Square has served as a significant site of protest and remembrance since the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Teachers strike mural and school safety sign on a Minneapolis building entrance. — March 17, 2022 — A mural and signage in Minneapolis express solidarity with striking teachers. The mural features figures holding signs that read "Strike for My Family" and "Strike for My Life," while a banner on the door states "On Strike for Safe, Stable Schools." These visual statements reflect the labor action taken by Minneapolis educators, who have historically engaged in activism, including during the Minneapolis Uprising. The strike highlights the ongoing struggle for improved educational conditions and resources within the city's public school system.

Closure notice on Uptown Tavern & Rooftop door in Minneapolis, dated January 5, 2022. — March 17, 2022 — A notice dated January 5, 2022, announces the temporary closure of Uptown Tavern & Rooftop in Minneapolis. The closure was a response to increased crime and unrest in the Uptown area, which had experienced significant disturbances in the summer of 2020. The sign indicates the establishment would remain closed indefinitely, with management expressing a desire to reopen. This event underscores the vulnerability of urban businesses to localized safety concerns and social unrest.

Orpheum Theatre sign on Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis with RBC Gateway rising behind. — March 21, 2022 — The Orpheum Theatre, a historic Minneapolis venue opened in 1921, stands adjacent to the modern Gateway Tower in the city's central business district. The Orpheum has been a premier destination for Broadway shows and live performances following numerous renovations.

Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis at dusk with a city bus and parked police SUV. — March 21, 2022 — Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis is a pedestrian-oriented street designed to foster commerce and public gathering. Originally conceived in the 1960s, it was transformed into a pedestrian mall in 1967, becoming a central hub for shopping, dining, and cultural events. The presence of a Minneapolis Police vehicle suggests ongoing public safety presence, which is a common sight in urban centers, particularly in areas that have experienced significant events such as the Minneapolis Uprising.

Graffiti reading “GEORGE” and “RIP” on a garbage can at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. — March 22, 2022 — Graffiti reading "George" and "RIP" adorns a garbage can at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This location became an autonomous zone and memorial following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. For several months, community members organized events and managed the space, transforming it into a hub for activism and remembrance. The square continues to serve as a significant site honoring George Floyd's life and the broader Minneapolis Uprising.

“Still Not Loving Police” sticker and beaded cross in South Minneapolis. — March 22, 2022 — A sticker reading "Still Not Loving Police" is affixed to a utility pole in South Minneapolis, a message that gained prominence during the 2020 Minneapolis Uprising. The uprising was ignited by the murder of George Floyd and brought widespread attention to issues of police brutality and racial injustice. The sticker, accompanied by a beaded cross, represents a form of informal public expression and protest against systemic issues. Such displays are common in urban areas that have experienced significant social and political activism.

BLM-painted flower planters inside a greenhouse at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. — March 22, 2022 — This greenhouse at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis was established as a space for community expression and remembrance following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The planters, decorated with "Black Lives Matter" and "Black Gang Brown Lives Matter" slogans, signify the ongoing activism and social justice movements in the area. The greenhouse, with its floral displays, represents a continued commitment to honoring Floyd's memory and advocating for racial equality. It serves as a testament to the community's resilience and their efforts to cultivate dialogue and foster change.

Lake Street and Girard Avenue intersection in Uptown Minneapolis at night, featuring Stella's Fish Cafe and nearby buildings illuminated by neon signage. — March 22, 2022 — Stella's Fish Cafe sits at Lake Street and Girard Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis. The restaurant has operated at this corner since the early 1990s serving seafood.

Justice for Amir Locke flyer on a Midtown Greenway pillar in Minneapolis. — March 23, 2022 — A flyer demanding justice for Amir Locke is affixed to a pillar along the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis. Locke, a 22-year-old, was killed by Minneapolis police during a "no-knock" warrant execution in February 2022. The flyer calls for accountability for the police department and city officials, questioning the necessity of such raids. The Midtown Greenway is a popular multi-use trail built on a former railroad corridor, now a significant piece of urban infrastructure for recreation and transportation in the city.

Amir Locke memorial mural outside Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis at night. — March 23, 2022 — A mural honoring Amir Locke, who was killed by Minneapolis police in February 2022, is displayed outside Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis. The mural, reading "In Loving Memory Amir Locke" and "Justice 4 Amir," appeared following Locke's death and subsequent protests.

Nicollet Mall and 8th Street in downtown Minneapolis with the Dayton's building and skyway. — March 25, 2022 — Nicollet Mall and 8th Street in Downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, are shown with the IDS Center and the former Dayton's department store building. Nicollet Mall, originally a street, was redeveloped into a pedestrian mall in the 1960s to revitalize the downtown core and encourage foot traffic. The IDS Center, completed in 1973, became a landmark of the city's central business district. The skywalk system, visible connecting buildings, was developed to provide weather-protected pedestrian access throughout downtown Minneapolis, enhancing its functionality.

Violence interrupters on Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis near a street corner. — March 25, 2022 — Violence Interrupters gather on Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis. This group works to de-escalate conflicts and prevent retaliatory violence within the community. Their presence in public spaces like this busy thoroughfare highlights ongoing efforts to address public safety concerns. Hennepin Avenue is a major commercial and cultural artery in Minneapolis, and its condition often reflects the broader social and economic dynamics of the city.

Minneapolis skyline across Lake of the Isles at night. — March 27, 2022 — The Minneapolis skyline is visible at night from the frozen surface of Lake of the Isles, a prominent feature of the city's Chain of Lakes park system. This vantage point offers a view of the downtown commercial district, showcasing the development of its architecture and economic activity. Lake of the Isles, established in the late 19th century, serves as a vital green space within the urban environment, providing areas for public use and contributing to the city's character.

Barricades outside Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct in South Minneapolis at night. — March 29, 2022 — The Minneapolis Police Department's 5th Precinct is shown barricaded at night, surrounded by temporary fencing and concrete barriers. This measure was put in place during periods of civil unrest in Minneapolis, notably following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The precinct, located in South Minneapolis, serves as a key law enforcement hub for the area. The presence of barricades highlights the heightened security and the impact of public demonstrations on municipal infrastructure.

George Floyd mural at Cup Foods in Minneapolis, Minnesota. — March 29, 2022 — The "George Floyd Mural" is painted on the exterior wall of Cup Foods, a grocery store located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This mural was created in honor of George Floyd, who died on May 25, 2020, outside this establishment after being subjected to police brutality. The artwork, situated in the area that became known as George Floyd Square, serves as a memorial and a symbol of the protests and uprising that followed Floyd's death. The mural features Floyd's portrait, the phrase "I Can Breathe Now," and a list of other victims of police brutality, functioning as a site of remembrance and a call for justice.

George Floyd Square memorial at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis at night. — March 29, 2022 — The George Floyd Square Memorial, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, serves as a site of remembrance and protest following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. The memorial features a "raised fist" sculpture, which is draped with a blanket in honor of Amir Locke, who was killed by Minneapolis Police in February 2022. This space has become a significant community gathering point for discussions on racial justice and police accountability.

Williams Uptown and Cowboy Slim's on Hennepin and Lagoon in Minneapolis at night. — March 29, 2022 — Cowboy Slim's and Williams Uptown are illuminated at night on the corner of Hennepin Avenue and Lagoon Avenue in Minneapolis's Uptown neighborhood. Cowboy Slim's, a bar and saloon, features prominent neon signage, while Williams Uptown, a food and drink establishment, is lit by its facade. This corner has long served as a commercial and entertainment hub within Uptown, known for its vibrant nightlife. The businesses at this location contribute to the area's reputation as a popular destination for dining and socializing.

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