George Floyd

925 photos · 2020–2026

925 photographs tagged George Floyd, 2020–2026.

Justice for George Floyd Trial in 3 days
A sign at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis reads "Justice for George Floyd. Trial in 3 days." The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, became a focal point for protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The sign's message reflects the anticipation of the trial of Derek Chauvin, the officer accused of Floyd's murder, which began on March 8, 2021. A banner with the words "BLACK TAX" is also visible, indicating the ongoing activism and community organizing within the square.

George Floyd Square: Trial in 3 Days Sign

Michelle Gross speaks at Hennepin County Government Center
Michelle Gross speaks to a crowd at the Hennepin County Government Center announcing plans to protest the start of the Derek Chauvin murder trial.

Michelle Gross speaks at Hennepin County Government Center

Barricades at the Hennepin County Public Safety Facility
Security barricades and fencing surround the Hennepin County Public Safety Facility in Minneapolis on February 24, 2021 in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. The extensive security measures, including concrete barriers and razor wire, were implemented to manage potential protests and ensure the safety of the courthouse and surrounding areas. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

Hennepin County Jail Barricades for Chauvin Trial

Hennepin County Juvenile Justice Center in downtown Minneapolis boarded with plywood panels during February 2021 trial security preparations.
The Hennepin County Juvenile Justice Center in downtown Minneapolis is shown boarded up in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial in April 2021. The building, located at 590 Park Avenue, serves as a courthouse for juvenile legal proceedings. The extensive boarding and security measures were implemented in response to concerns about potential unrest and protests stemming from the trial, which followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Plywood Covers Entrances at the Hennepin County Juvenile Justice Center

Yellow mesh security fencing and razor wire surround the Hennepin County Government Center during Derek Chauvin trial preparations in downtown Minneapolis.
Security measures, including razor wire and concrete barriers, were erected around the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

Razor Wire Lines a Concrete Barrier Near Minneapolis City Hall at Night

Razor wire fencing secures the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis during trial security preparations in February 2021.
Razor wire fencing is installed around the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This security measure was put in place in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial, which was scheduled to begin less than two weeks after this photograph was taken. The trial stemmed from the death of George Floyd, whose killing by Chauvin in May 2020 sparked widespread protests and unrest in Minneapolis and across the nation.

“Closed” Parking Garage Sign Near Hennepin County Government Center at Night

Concrete barriers line a snowy downtown Minneapolis street at night near the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office during trial security preparations.
Concrete barricaded shown on February 22, 2021 around the Hennepin County Medical Examiner's Office in downtown Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

Concrete Barriers Outside the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office

Barricaded streets around George Floyd Square
Barricades remain at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, a space that became a focal point for protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, was occupied by protesters for months, transforming it into a community hub and a symbol of the movement for racial justice.

Barricades at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis

George Floyd Square and Malcolm X
A young person places flowers on a memorial at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on February 21, 2021. The square, established in the wake of George Floyd's murder in May 2020, has become a site of protest and remembrance. The gathering also honored Malcolm X, a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, and explorer Matthew Henson, who was part of the first expedition to reach the North Pole. The event, which included the GFS Liberation Loppet, served as a moment to reflect on Black liberation movements and historical figures. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

George Floyd Square: Remembering Malcolm X in Winter

Remembering Malcolm X at George Floyd Square
A gathering took place at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis to commemorate the anniversary of Malcolm X's assassination and discuss Black liberation movements. The event also coincided with the GFS Liberation Loppet, an event honoring explorer Matthew Henson, who is credited by some with being the first to reach the North Pole. The "Peoples Way" mural is visible on the building behind the attendees, a reference to the community's renaming of the intersection after George Floyd's murder. The "George Floyd Trial In 15 Days" sign on the Speedway gas station highlights the ongoing legal proceedings related to his death.

George Floyd Square Gathering for Malcolm X Anniversary

Hennepin County Government Center entrance secured with orange traffic cones, concrete barriers, and chain-link fencing during trial security preparations in February 2021.
Temporary security barricades are erected on February 18, 2021 around the Hennepin County Government Center at 300 South 6th Street in Minneapolis. These measures were put in place in anticipation of the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former police officer charged in the May 2020 murder of George Floyd. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

Concrete Barriers Line South 6th Street Before the Chauvin Trial

Snowstorm and Minneapolis City Hall prior to Chauvin trial
Minneapolis City Hall and Hennepin County Government Center are seen under snowfall as security preparations are underway for the Derek Chauvin trial. This measure reflects the heightened security concerns surrounding the trial of the former police officer accused in the death of George Floyd, which occurred in Minneapolis.

Minneapolis City Hall in Snow Before Chauvin Trial Security

A front-end loader removes concrete barriers from a snowy downtown Minneapolis street at night near City Hall during trial security preparations.
Public Works vehicles install jersey barriers around government buildings in Minneapolis in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

Front-End Loaders Install Jersey Barriers on South 6th Street at Night

Hennepin County Government Center at 300 South 6th Street boarded with plywood panels during winter.
The Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis was boarded up in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin trial in March 2021. The building, located at 300 South 6th Street, houses county government offices and courtrooms.

Snowy Entrance at Hennepin County Government Center After Dark

Minneapolis City Hall and Hennepin County Government Center surrounded by security fencing and barricades in February 2021.
Fencing and barricades surround Minneapolis City Hall and the Hennepin County Government Center in downtown Minneapolis on February 16, 2021. These security measures were installed in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial, which began on March 8, 2021. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

METRO Green Line Station at Minneapolis City Hall During Winter

Snow-covered street lined with historic and modern buildings, security fencing, and barriers surrounding Minneapolis City Hall.
Security fencing and concrete barriers surround Minneapolis City Hall and the Hennepin County Jail in anticipation of the Derek Chauvin murder trial.

Empty Downtown Minneapolis Street Before the Chauvin Trial

Metal fencing and concrete barriers surround Minneapolis City Hall's stone facade during preparations for the Derek Chauvin trial.
Fencing and barricades begin going up around downtown locations with Derek Chauvin trial just 20 days away.

Fourth Avenue Fenced Off Outside Minneapolis City Hall

George Floyd Trial in 21 Days
George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, is shown 21 days before the start of the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged in Floyd's death. The intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue became a focal point for protests and activism following Floyd's murder in May 2020. The area has been transformed into a memorial and a space for community gathering, marked by tributes and art. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

George Floyd Trial Countdown at 38th and Chicago, Minneapolis

Ice and snow at George Floyd Square
A large mural of George Floyd's face is displayed at George Floyd Square in South Minneapolis during the winter of 2021. The square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, became a focal point for protests and activism following Floyd's murder by police in May 2020. The area has since been transformed into a memorial and community space, marked by various artworks, signs, and tributes, including this mural. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

George Floyd Square Mural in Winter, Minneapolis

Cup Foods at Chicago and 38th Street.
Inside Cup Foods as seen from George Floyd Square. George Floyd was inside Cup Foods prior to his murder in May 2020.

Cup Foods at Chicago and 38th Street.

I Cant Breathe George Floyd Memorial during ice storm
The George Floyd Memorial, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street in Minneapolis, is a site of remembrance and protest. Following George Floyd's murder by police in May 2020, this area became a focal point for demonstrations against racial injustice and police brutality. The memorial features art, tributes, and the prominent phrase "I Can't Breathe," a reference to Floyd's final words.

George Floyd Memorial Ice and Snow, Minneapolis

Community Building Is Revolutionary
A bench at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis bears the inscription "Community building is revolutionary." This message reflects the spirit of the autonomous zone established in the summer of 2020 following the murder of George Floyd. On May 25, 2020, Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murdered 46-year-old George Floyd during an arrest outside Cup Foods at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis. Video recorded by bystanders showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck for more than nine minutes while Floyd repeatedly said he could not breathe. Three other Minneapolis police officers - J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao — were also present during the arrest and later faced criminal charges for their roles in Floyd’s death. Floyd’s murder sparked protests and civil unrest across Minneapolis and around the world, leading to widespread demonstrations against police violence, major policy debates on policing, and the conviction of Chauvin on murder and manslaughter charges in 2021.

George Floyd Square: “Community Building Is Revolutionary” Bench

Concrete Barricades in the snow at George Floyd Square
Barricades at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis on January 23, 2021, during a snowfall. This area became a protest zone following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The barricades, adorned with messages such as "RESPECT ONE ANOTHER" and "YOU ARE NOW ENTERING THE FREE STATE OF GEORGE FLOYD," signify the community's assertion of control and memorialization of the event. The "RESIDENTS ONLY" signs indicate restricted access, reflecting the self-governance established by protesters.

George Floyd Square Barricades in Snow, Minneapolis

George Floyd Memorial under heavy snow
George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 23, 2021, during a snowfall. This site, 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 area, often referred to as the George Floyd Memorial, has been maintained by activists and community members as a space for remembrance and continued activism. The memorial features numerous tributes, including flowers, signs, and personal items, placed amidst the snow.

George Floyd Memorial in Minneapolis Under Snow

George Floyd Trial in 44 Days
The former Speedway gas station at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, now known as George Floyd Square, served as a focal point for protests following George Floyd's murder in May 2020. The sign displays "GEORGE FLOYD TRIAL IN 44 DAYS," indicating the proximity to the Derek Chauvin trial. This location became a symbol of the Minneapolis Uprising and a community-organized space, referred to as "The People's Way," where residents asserted their presence and demands for justice. The "BLACK JOY" banner visible in the image reflects the ongoing cultural and social significance of the square amidst the backdrop of legal proceedings and community activism.

George Floyd Trial Countdown at 38th and Chicago, Minneapolis

George Floyd Square during a snowstorm
The George Floyd Square Memorial, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis, Minnesota, stands as a testament to the protests and uprisings that followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. This site, which was occupied by protesters for over a year, has become a permanent memorial and a gathering place for community remembrance and activism. The memorial features various tributes, including flowers, candles, and artwork, arranged around a central monument. Despite the winter snow, the site remains a significant location for reflecting on racial justice and police brutality.

George Floyd Square Memorial in Snow, Minneapolis

Minneapolis Park and Rec George Floyd Square
A sign marking George Floyd Square stands in the snow at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis. This location became a focal point for protests and activism following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The square, initially an occupied protest zone, has since been transformed into a memorial and community space, reflecting ongoing efforts to address racial injustice and police brutality. The repurposed Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board sign signifies the area's transition and its enduring importance as a site of remembrance and civic engagement.

Minneapolis Park & Rec Sign at George Floyd Square in Snow

Cars drive through George Floyd Square in January 2021
George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of East 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, Minnesota, became a focal point for protests following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The site, including the Cup Foods store where Floyd was apprehended, was transformed into a memorial and autonomous zone. This image shows the memorial on Martin Luther King Day, featuring a metal fist sculpture that replaced earlier iterations, symbolizing community strength and resilience. The memorial continues to serve as a space for remembrance and activism.

George Floyd Square Memorial at 38th and Chicago, Minneapolis

Dolal Idd protest at George Floyd Square
Protesters gathered at George Floyd Square in South Minneapolis on January 1, 2021, to demand justice for Dolal Idd. Idd was killed by Minneapolis Police on December 30, 2020, during a traffic stop, marking the first police killing in the city since George Floyd's death in May 2020. The square, located at the intersection of Cedar Avenue and 38th Street, became a focal point for activism and community organizing following Floyd's murder.

Protest for Dolal Idd at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis

Protesters arrive at George Floyd Square in January 2021
Protesters march towards George Floyd Square in Minneapolis in January 2021. The square, established in the summer of 2020 following the murder of George Floyd, became a focal point for racial justice activism. This march originated from the site where Dolal Idd was killed by police approximately one mile away, highlighting ongoing concerns about police brutality and systemic racism in the city. The area around George Floyd Square has been transformed into a memorial and a space for community organizing.

Protesters march to George Floyd Square, Minneapolis, January 2021

Warming huts at George Floyd Square
A winter warming hut stands amidst snow and barricades at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This site, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, became a protest zone and memorial following the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. Community members constructed structures like this warming hut to provide shelter and support for those maintaining the memorial and protest presence, especially during the cold Minnesota winters.

George Floyd Square Winter Warming Hut

Fresh December snowfall at George Floyd Memorial
The George Floyd Memorial at George Floyd Square, located outside Cup Foods on Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, is seen after a December snowfall. This site became an impromptu memorial following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020, sparking widespread protests against racial injustice and police brutality. The memorial, which includes flowers, signs, and other tributes, serves as a permanent public space for remembrance and a symbol of the ongoing movement for civil rights. The area around Cup Foods, where Floyd was killed, was transformed into a community-managed space, reflecting its role as a focal point for activism and reflection.

George Floyd Square Memorial, Cup Foods, Minneapolis Snow

Community book shelf at George Floyd Square
The Community Book Shelf stands at George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis. This community-driven initiative functions as a free exchange, allowing individuals to donate and borrow books. It emerged as part of the informal memorials and community infrastructure established in the wake of the 2020 Minneapolis Uprising and the murder of George Floyd.

Community Book Shelf at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis

Peoples Way after a fresh snow fall
The People's Way, a former Speedway gas station at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, is seen covered in snow. This site, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, transformed into a protest zone following the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd. The area now functions as a community gathering space and memorial, featuring murals, graffiti, and various installations that reflect ongoing calls for justice and social change.

People’s Way, George Floyd Square, Minneapolis, covered in snow

Everyone interconnected together mural on storefront
A mural adorns protective boards on an H&M retail store located on Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis. This artwork emerged during the Minneapolis Uprising following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020, when many businesses boarded their windows for protection. The mural, featuring a figure in a canoe and a lotus flower, carries messages such as "When we know justice say their names" and "everyone interconnected together," reflecting themes of community and calls for justice.

Mural on H&M Boards, Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis Uprising

Police in front of George Floyd mural
Minneapolis Police officers investigate a shooting at George Floyd Square in South Minneapolis on December 27, 2020. This site, located at the intersection of E 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, transformed into a significant memorial and protest space following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Minneapolis Police Investigate Shooting at George Floyd Square

Large amount of police enter George Floyd Square
Minneapolis Police officers arrive at George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of E 38th Street and Elliot Avenue in South Minneapolis, following a shooting incident. Prior to their arrival, two victims had been transported to hospitals by community members present at the square. Residents at the square confronted the responding officers, subsequently offering to escort five of them to collect shell casings from the site. George Floyd Square emerged as a significant memorial and protest site after the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

Minneapolis Police respond to George Floyd Square shooting

Black Joy at George Floyd Square
George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, located at Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, serves as a protest zone and memorial site following the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd. A former Speedway sign displays a countdown to the Derek Chauvin trial, indicating "GEORGE FLOYD TRIAL IN 73 DAYS."

George Floyd Square: Black Joy Banner, Trial Countdown Sign

Protest Each Other sign at George Floyd Square
A protest sign is affixed to a pole at George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis. The sign, painted blue, features messages such as "Protect Each Other," "Justice 4 George Floyd," and "Masks Help Us All," alongside stencil art of masked faces. George Floyd Square became a memorial and protest site following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police in May 2020.

George Floyd Square Protest Sign, Minneapolis

Peoples closet at George Floyd Square in December 2020
The People's Closet, a community clothing exchange, and a painted piano stand at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This area, located at E 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, transformed into a protest zone following the May 25, 2020, death of George Floyd. The People's Closet provides free clothing and resources, reflecting the mutual aid efforts that emerged within the protest space.

The People’s Closet & Piano, George Floyd Square, Minneapolis

George Floyd Square map on a board
A handmade map, positioned at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis, guides visitors through the memorial site. The map outlines significant areas including the George Floyd Memorial, the Say Their Names Memorial, and a Memorial Cemetery, along with a designated Food/Supply Drive. Located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and 38th Street, this area transformed into a protest zone and community hub following George Floyd's death on May 25, 2020.

George Floyd Square Memorial Map, Chicago Ave, Minneapolis

Free state of George Floyd
A sign declares "You are now entering the free state of George Floyd" at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis. This area, located at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, transformed into a protest zone following the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd. The square has since served as a memorial and a site for ongoing activism, marked by various installations and community-maintained barricades. It represents a sustained public protest and a demand for justice.

George Floyd Square: ‘Free State of George Floyd’ Sign

George Floyd Square memorial at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis with chalk art and flower tributes.
George Floyd Square sits at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, outside Cup Foods, where George Floyd died on May 25, 2020. The words "I can't breathe" — spoken by Floyd during his arrest and later echoed by Eric Garner in 2014 — are painted directly on the street alongside a large mural of angel wings. Flowers, handwritten signs, and personal offerings surround the artwork, left and maintained by visitors and neighborhood volunteers. For more than a year after Floyd's death, the intersection remained closed to through traffic and was informally managed by community members as a memorial and gathering space.

‘I Can’t Breathe’ Pavement Art at George Floyd Square

George Floyd Memorial at Cup Foods, 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis.
George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin on May 25, 2020, on the sidewalk outside Cup Foods at the corner of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. Within days, the intersection filled with flowers, signs, and artwork, and residents began calling it George Floyd Square. A wrought-iron gate and a wall of flowers now mark the spot where Floyd died, tended by volunteers who've kept the memorial going through changes of season for months at a time.

George Floyd Square Memorial Outside Cup Foods

Boarded storefront on Lake Street in Minneapolis displays "George Floyd" text during snowfall.
Plywood covering a storefront on Lake Street carries the hand-painted name "George Floyd," one of many boarded windows along the corridor turned into memorials after his killing in police custody in May 2020. Businesses along Lake Street boarded their windows that spring after nights of fires and looting during the unrest that followed Floyd's death. Rather than being removed once the immediate unrest subsided, many of these boards remained in place for months, repainted by artists and volunteers with murals, names, and messages tied to the Black Lives Matter movement.

“George Floyd” Mural on Boarded Storefront, Lake Street Snowfall

Elizer Darris speaks at George Floyd Square
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.

Elizer Darris speaks at Myon Burrell rally, George Floyd Square

Protesters asking for the release of Myon Burrell
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.

Rally for Myon Burrell at Speedway, George Floyd Square

Myon Burrells son speaks at George Floyd Square
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.

Myon Burrell Jr. at George Floyd Square exoneration rally

Michael Toussaint at George Floyd Square
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.

Michael Toussaint Speaks at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis

Buses do not stop here
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.

George Floyd Square: Buses Do Not Stop Here, Minneapolis Snow

Snow falls on George Floyd Square
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.

George Floyd Square Greenhouse, First Snowfall

Heavy snow falls on George Floyd Square
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.

First Snowfall at George Floyd Square, 38th & Chicago

Community members at George Floyd Square
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.

George Floyd Square: Community at People’s Way station

Protesters warm their hands at George Floyd Square
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.

Protesters warming hands by fire pit, George Floyd Square

Community gathers on George Floyd 47th birthday
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.

Minneapolis: George Floyd Square, Bouncy Castle, 47th Birthday

George Floyd’s family speaks at George Floyd Square
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.

George Floyd’s family speaks at George Floyd Square on his 47th birthday

Angela Harrelson speaks at George Floyd Square
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.

Angela Harrelson speaks at George Floyd Square on 47th Birthday

Food being offered at George Floyd Square
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.

Community Food Distribution at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis

Defaced George Floyd mural
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.

George Floyd mural with graffiti at Cup Foods, Minneapolis

Panda ACAB Evict The Cops
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".

South Minneapolis Mural & ACAB Graffiti on Building Wall

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.
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.

Police guarding burned Wells Fargo

Red star with "George Floyd" painted on First Avenue concert venue exterior wall in downtown Minneapolis.
The George Floyd memorial star is painted on the exterior wall of First Avenue in downtown Minneapolis. Added in 2020 after Floyd’s killing, the memorial placed his name on one of Minneapolis’s most recognizable entertainment landmarks during a period of mourning and protest in the city.

George Floyd’s Star on First Avenue’s Wall of Fame

ACAB RIP GEORGE graffiti on Midtown Station
Graffiti expressing "R.I.P. George Floyd" and "ACAB" covers a wall at the Lake Street / Midtown Station in South Minneapolis.

ACAB RIP George Floyd Graffiti, Midtown Station, Minneapolis

Really big GEORGE FLOYD graffiti on Midtown Greenway
George Floyd graffiti on a retaining wall along the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis, photographed on August 22, 2020.

George Floyd Graffiti on the Midtown Greenway

A mural on Lake Street in August 2020
A mural depicting a young Black girl with a raised fist is prominently displayed on West Lake Street in Uptown Minneapolis. This artwork, seen on August 19, 2020, emerged as part of the widespread artistic responses following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The mural includes the hashtag #AMPLIFYBLACKVOICES.

George Floyd Protest Mural, West Lake Street, Minneapolis

MPD defund fuck trump at George Floyd Square
George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis, is shown on August 19, 2020. This site became a community-maintained memorial and protest zone following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020, outside the adjacent Cup Foods. The Speedway gas station sign displays protest messages such as "MPD = DEFUND" and "FUCK TRUMP," while the surrounding area features numerous tributes, graffiti, and art installations. The square functioned as an autonomous zone for a period, serving as a gathering place for activism, remembrance, and community support.

George Floyd Square: Defund MPD, Fuck Trump on Speedway Sign

George Floyd mural covered up after vandalism
The George Floyd mural on the exterior of Cup Foods, located at E 38th Street in Minneapolis, is covered by a blue tarp. This action followed an act of vandalism against the artwork, which is a prominent feature of the George Floyd Memorial at George Floyd Square. The site gained profound historical significance as the location where George Floyd was killed in May 2020, leading to global protests against racial injustice.

George Floyd mural at Cup Foods covered after vandalism

George Floyd Memorial with sunburst
The George Floyd mural at Cup Foods on East 38th Street in Minneapolis located near where George Floyd was murdered by police on May 25, 2020. This location, known as George Floyd Square, became an autonomous zone and a significant memorial site following his death, drawing visitors and activists from around the world. The photograph, taken on August 17, 2020, shows the mural adorned with numerous flowers and other tributes, reflecting its ongoing use as a place of remembrance and protest.

George Floyd Square, Cup Foods Mural and Memorial Flowers at Sunset

George Floyd Square garden caretaker Jay Webb
Jay Webb, caretaker of the George Floyd Square garden, addresses a gathering at a protest in Minneapolis. The rally took place at George Floyd Square, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, a site that became a permanent memorial and protest space after the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. This particular protest occurred on a day when President Trump was visiting the city, adding to the local activism. The surrounding walls feature protest graffiti, including phrases like "Black Lives Matter" and "Abolish," reflecting the ongoing calls for justice and systemic change.

George Floyd Square Caretaker Jay Webb at Minneapolis Rally

A lay in staged at George Floyd Square in August 2020
Protesters participate in an 8-minute and 46-second 'lay-in' at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis during August 2020. This protest action symbolizes the duration a Minneapolis Police officer knelt on George Floyd's neck, resulting in his death. George Floyd Square, situated at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, transformed into a memorial and community space following Floyd's murder in May 2020. The square continues to function as a site for remembrance, community gathering, and ongoing advocacy for racial justice and police accountability.

George Floyd Square 8:46 Minute Lay-In Protest, August 2020

Rally at George Floyd Square during Trump visit to Minneapolis
Protesters raise their fists at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis during a rally held on the same day President Trump visited the city. This site, located at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, became a community-maintained memorial and protest hub following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police in May 2020. The area around Cup Foods, where Floyd was killed, was transformed into a space for collective mourning and calls for justice.

George Floyd Square Protest During Trump Visit, Minneapolis

Toussaint Morrison speaks at George Floyd Square in August 2020
Toussaint Morrison addresses a rally at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis in August 2020. This protest took place on the same day President Trump visited Minneapolis, adding a layer of political significance to the gathering. George Floyd Square, situated at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, emerged as a significant memorial and site for ongoing protests following George Floyd's murder in May 2020.

Toussaint Morrison at George Floyd Square Rally, August 2020

Graffiti mural with "FLOYD" text and raised fist on wooden fence at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis.
A George Floyd mural on a fence near near George Floyd Square. "ONE LOVE" written in the grass.

“FLOYD” Fence Mural Near George Floyd Square

George Floyd mural and memorial flowers at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis.
George Floyd Square formed at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue South, where Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020.

Memorial at George Floyd Square Outside Cup Foods

Memorial flowers and candles surround a "Rest In Power" sign at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis.
George Floyd Square sits at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, where George Floyd died on May 25, 2020, after being pinned by police officer Derek Chauvin. In the aftermath, community members closed the intersection to traffic and built a memorial of flowers, candles, and hand-painted signs that has been continuously maintained and expanded since. The area was informally renamed George Floyd Square, and Minneapolis city crews did not fully reopen it to vehicle traffic until June 2021. A raised fist sculpture and a rotating collection of memorial art remain fixtures at the site.

‘Rest in Power’ Memorial at George Floyd Square

Protest sign reading "Abolish the Police" with lit candles at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis.
An "Abolish The Police" sign at George Floyd Square months after Floyd was killed by the Minneapolis Police.

“Abolish the Police” Sign Among Candles at George Floyd Square

Community members gather for a comedy show at a Speedway gas station in George Floyd Square, Minneapolis.
A comedy show put on at the Speedway gas station at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue. The gas station is now known as The People's Way and has been a gathering place inside George Floyd Square since Floyd's May 2020 murder.

Evening Comedy Show at the Speedway Station in George Floyd Square

Protest sign reading "They're going to kill me" at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis.
George Floyd Square sits at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in South Minneapolis, where police officer Derek Chauvin killed George Floyd on May 25, 2020. Community members barricaded the intersection in the weeks that followed, and it remained closed to through traffic for more than a year as it evolved into a memorial and gathering space.

‘They’re Going to Kill Me’ Sign at George Floyd Square

Community members distribute free produce and drinks outside Cup Foods on Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis.
George Floyd Square formed at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue after George Floyd was killed on May 25, 2020, prompting the city to barricade the area to vehicle traffic. Cup Foods, the corner store where the fatal police encounter began, sits at the center of the site. A "Keep Cup Closed" sign a push by some community members to keep the store shuttered rather than let it reopen for business. Volunteers have used the square to distribute free food and other supplies to residents throughout the ongoing occupation.

Free Produce Cart at George Floyd Square

Graffiti reading "RIP FLOYD" and "LOVE GEORGE" on boarded Walgreens storefront, Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, August 2020.
Plywood covered this Walgreens on Hennepin Avenue after windows were broken during the unrest following George Floyd's death in police custody on May 25, 2020. Business owners across Minneapolis boarded up storefronts in the days that followed, and many of those panels turned into makeshift memorials and message boards. Here, someone spray-painted "RIP FLOYD" alongside a raised fist and the words "LOVE GEORGE," part of a wave of street tributes that spread through the city's commercial corridors that summer.

‘RIP Floyd’ Graffiti on a Boarded-Up Hennepin Avenue Walgreens

Candles illuminating names of police violence victims painted on the street at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis.
George Floyd Square sits at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street, the site where George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020. In the weeks and months that followed, the intersection was closed to traffic and taken over by residents and organizers, who filled it with memorials, artwork, and a list of names of other people killed by police around the country. The names painted across the pavement became one of the square's recurring memorial elements, repainted and added to as the site evolved from protest ground into a semi-permanent gathering place. The city did not fully reopen the intersection to vehicle traffic until June 2021.

Names of Police Violence Victims Painted on Chicago Avenue

George Floyd Memorial at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis lit with candles and flowers at night.
A night photo of the George Floyd Memorial in August 2020.

Nighttime Memorial at 38th and Chicago

Flyers and mutual aid notices posted on plywood fencing at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis.
George Floyd Square sits at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, the corner where George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police on May 25, 2020. The Twin Cities Mutual Aid Project, known locally as TCMAP, posts resource guides there covering food, supplies, and COVID-19 assistance for people in need.

TCMAP Mutual Aid Flyers at George Floyd Square

Person wearing denim jacket with patches depicting the Minneapolis Police 3rd Precinct building on fire and "Welcome to
The patch on this denim jacket depicts the Minneapolis Police Department's 3rd Precinct headquarters on fire, captioned "Welcome to Minneapolis!" Protesters overran and burned the building on May 28, 2020, four days after George Floyd was killed by 4 Minneapolis police officers a few miles away at 38th Street and Chicago Avenue.

“Welcome to Minneapolis!” Patch on a Denim Jacket

Man wearing Bryant Neighborhood Organization shirt at George Floyd Square, Minneapolis, August 2020.
George Floyd Square sits at the intersection of East 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, marked by a t-shirt reading "Bryant Neighborhood Organization, E 38th St & Chicago Av." The intersection became the site of a memorial and gathering place after George Floyd's death there in May 2020.

Bryant Neighborhood Organization Shirt at George Floyd Square

Mahmoud Abumayyaleh, owner of Cup Foods, stands outside his store at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis.
Cup Foods sits at the corner of East 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, the site where George Floyd was killed on May 25, 2020. Mahmoud Abumayyaleh, whose family has owned the store since 1990, closed the business in the aftermath and reopened it weeks later amid the memorial that grew around the intersection. The area has since been known as George Floyd Square.

Mahmoud Abumayyaleh at Cup Foods After Its Reopening

Fellow Brother George Floyd
A paper sign bearing an image of George Floyd and the text 'FELLOW BROTHER GEORGE FLOYD' is affixed to the wooden facade of a business in Minneapolis. This memorial emerged in the aftermath of Floyd's killing in May 2020, becoming a widespread form of public expression during the subsequent protests and the Minneapolis Uprising. Such signs served to honor Floyd and articulate demands for justice within the urban landscape. Positioned alongside a video surveillance warning, the sign reflects the charged atmosphere and community responses in the city during this significant historical period.

Fellow Brother George Floyd Sign, Minneapolis

AutoZone building lot cleared
The AutoZone sign stands over a cleared lot at the intersection of East Lake Street and Minnehaha Avenue in Minneapolis. This site was formerly home to the AutoZone store, which was the first building to burn during the civil unrest that followed the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd. The cleared ground marks a significant location in the events that unfolded across the city, particularly near the Minneapolis Police 3rd Precinct. The remaining sign serves as a stark reminder of the widespread damage and subsequent rebuilding efforts in the area.

AutoZone Sign, Cleared Lot, East Lake Street, Minneapolis

A burned-out Family Dollar store with boarded windows and charred interior visible on Lake Street in Minneapolis.
The Family Dollar store on Lake Street in Minneapolis sustained severe fire damage. This destruction occurred during the widespread protests and civil unrest that followed the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd.

Burned-Out Family Dollar on Lake Street After Unrest

Outside the Max It Pawn that was destroyed by fire
The Max It Pawn shop on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis sustained significant damage. This retail building was destroyed by fires that occurred in the aftermath of the May 25th, 2020 death of George Floyd. The storefront, with its broken windows and charred interior, reflects the widespread property damage experienced by businesses in the urban core during the period of civil unrest. Debris and construction barriers on the sidewalk indicate ongoing cleanup and the lasting impact on the commercial district. This site serves as a historical marker of the events that unfolded in Minneapolis.

Max It Pawn Shop Burned Storefront, Cedar Ave, Minneapolis

Photo of trash inside burned out building
The charred interior of Max It Pawn on Cedar Avenue in South Minneapolis. This retail store sustained extensive fire damage and was destroyed during the civil unrest in Minneapolis following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. The structural damage and debris on the floor reflect the widespread impact of arson and property destruction that occurred across the city during this period. The destruction of businesses like Max It Pawn became a visible marker of the protests and the community's response to systemic injustice.

Max It Pawn Burned Interior, Minneapolis

A shoe sits on floor of burned out building
A single shoe rests amidst shattered glass and debris within the fire-damaged Max It Pawn shop on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis. This retail establishment suffered extensive damage by arson during the civil unrest and protests that occurred in the city following the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd. The destruction of businesses like Max It Pawn was a significant aspect of the period known as the Minneapolis Uprising. These remnants serve as a historical record of the profound social and economic impact on the community.

Shoe in Broken Glass, Max It Pawn, Cedar Ave, Minneapolis

Burned out counter inside Max It Pawn
The interior of Max It Pawn on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis displays extensive fire damage. This retail establishment was destroyed by arson following the May 25th, 2020 death of George Floyd. The destruction of the store reflects the broader impact of the civil unrest and protests that occurred across Minneapolis during that period, affecting numerous local businesses and the urban environment.

Burned Interior of Max It Pawn, Cedar Ave, Minneapolis

Caved in roof of fire damaged building on Cedar Ave
The interior of Max It Pawn on Cedar Avenue in Minneapolis shows extensive fire damage, with its roof caved in and corrugated metal structures twisted and rusted. This retail store sustained significant destruction during the protests and civil unrest that occurred in Minneapolis following the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. The building's charred remains and collapsed roof are a stark reminder of the widespread impact on local businesses. The damage to establishments like Max It Pawn became a visible representation of the profound effects of the Minneapolis Uprising on commercial districts and the community.

Max It Pawn Burned Interior, Cedar Ave, Minneapolis

Hand-painted protest sign with Prince quote and peace symbol displayed on ivy-covered fence in South Minneapolis.
This protest sign, displayed in South Minneapolis, features a quote attributed to Prince: "Nobody thought the revolution would start in Minneapolis except Prince." The sign was out during the widespread protests and civil unrest that followed the killing of George Floyd in May 2020.

“Except Prince” Sign Among South Minneapolis Protest Boards

Gamut Galley art boards
Storefronts along a street in Minneapolis, including Gamut Gallery, are boarded with plywood. These boards were installed to protect businesses during the civil unrest and protests that followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Many of the plywood panels were subsequently transformed into murals and public art, reflecting themes of justice and community. Businesses like Gamut Gallery, 'fades of gray,' 'BEE INK,' and 'ROSE SALON' participated in this widespread practice across the city.

Gamut Gallery boarded storefronts with murals, Minneapolis

Abolish the police and George Floyd murals on Minnehaha
Murals and protest art adorn boarded-up buildings along Minnehaha Avenue in South Minneapolis. These public art installations emerged in the aftermath of the May 25, 2020, death of George Floyd and the subsequent widespread protests. The artwork includes tributes to George Floyd, calls for justice, and messages such as "Abolish The Police," reflecting the community's demands for systemic change. Serving as a temporary public canvas, these expressions visually documented the grief and activism that characterized the Minneapolis Uprising.

Abolish Police Mural & George Floyd Art, Minnehaha Ave

No Justice No Peace in front of South Minneapolis bench
The phrase 'No Justice, No Peace' is spray-painted in red on a sidewalk next to a public bench in South Minneapolis. This slogan became a prominent rallying cry during the widespread protests and civil unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis in May 2020. Such public markings served as a direct expression of community grief, anger, and demands for systemic change, transforming urban spaces into sites of protest and remembrance. These messages, often temporary, marked the physical landscape of the city, reflecting the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

No Justice No Peace Graffiti on Sidewalk by Bench, South Minneapolis

You Hold the Key mural on boarded-up CVS boards, Lake Street, Minneapolis
The "You Hold the Key" mural by Ballard covers a boarded-up CVS Pharmacy on Lake Street in Minneapolis. Painted in 2020, it features a heart, the word "PEACE," and a large key on protective boards over the storefront.

You Hold the Key Mural, Lake Street CVS, Minneapolis

Boards on the Ananya Dance Theatre in St Paul
The Ananya Dance Theatre in St. Paul features murals painted on its boarded-up exterior. These artworks emerged in the aftermath of the 2020 protests following the murder of George Floyd, transforming the protective boards into a public expression of grief and calls for justice. The murals include messages such as "JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD" and "BLACK LIVES MATTER," alongside affirmations like "POC WOMAN OWNED," reflecting the theatre's identity and community solidarity. Ananya Dance Theatre, a professional dance company, uses performance to address social justice issues, making its building a fitting canvas for these protest art expressions.

Ananya Dance Theatre, St. Paul: George Floyd Mural

Large mural on the side of a building on Nicollet Ave
The "Floyd's World" mural, located on Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis, was created on June 5, 2020, in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder and the Minneapolis Uprising. This large-scale graffiti art, painted on the side of a commercial building, features the phrases "Floyd's World" and "Talking about the Revolution," accompanied by a raised fist symbol. The mural serves as a public expression of grief, protest, and a call for social change, reflecting the community's response to the events of that period. It remains a significant piece of public art documenting a critical moment in Minneapolis history.

“Floyd’s World” Mural, Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis

Burned O'Reilly Auto Parts remains on Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis in July 2020.
Burned O'Reilly Auto Parts on Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis remained collapsed and uncleared in July 2020. The store was damaged during the unrest that followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Graffiti on the adjacent wall ties the site to that period in the city.

Burned O’Reilly Auto Parts on Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis

Sign on a child care center during Minneapolis unrest
A sign on the door of a child care center during May/June unrest in Minneapolis over the murder of George Floyd. Sign reads "Please this is a child care center. Children attend this center. We are all in this together"

Please this is a child care center, Minneapolis sign

Cub Community Market tent on East Lake Street in Minneapolis before its July 8 opening.
Cub Community Market on East Lake Street in Minneapolis was a temporary grocery store established after the nearby Cub Foods was damaged by fire in May 2020. The tent market provided interim food access while the permanent store was rebuilt. A sign at the site announced a July 8 grand opening.

Cub Community Market, East Lake Street Minneapolis

Minneapolis Police vehicles patrol 1st Avenue in Downtown Minneapolis, dispersing hot rodders.
Minneapolis Police vehicles patrol 1st Avenue in Downtown Minneapolis. A caravan of squad cars was deployed to disperse groups of 'hot rodders' who had gathered in the area. These individuals were reportedly performing 'donuts' and other maneuvers in city intersections, disrupting traffic.

Minneapolis Police dispersing hot rodders on 1st Avenue

Metro Transit heart stencil and “IN THIS TOGETHER” message on a Minneapolis sidewalk.
Metro Transit stencil art on a sidewalk in Minneapolis’s North Loop neighborhood features the agency’s white “T” inside a red heart above the words “IN THIS TOGETHER.” The marking appears outside a Metro Transit facility and references the Twin Cities regional transit operator.

North Loop Metro Transit Stencil Art: In This Together

Downtown Minneapolis skyline above a vacant North Loop lot with a graffiti-marked truck and shipping container.
Downtown Minneapolis rises behind a vacant lot in the North Loop on June 27, 2020. A graffiti-marked box truck and shipping container stand on cleared industrial land west of the central business district, where former warehouse and service parcels have increasingly been converted to housing and commercial development.

Minneapolis North Loop Skyline, Graffiti-Covered Van, 06/27/20

Minneapolis firefighters extinguish a dumpster fire on a South Minneapolis street on June 27, 2020.
Minneapolis Fire Department personnel extinguish a smoking dumpster fire on a residential street in South Minneapolis on June 27, 2020.

Minneapolis Fire Department extinguishes South Minneapolis dumpster fire, June 2020

Uptown Theater marquee in Minneapolis as bicycle police stand outside during late-night street closures.
The Uptown Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is shown at night with its marquee reading “ASSURE YOU WE’RE NOT OPEN” as two Minneapolis police officers with bicycles stand on the sidewalk beneath the canopy. The theater, a longstanding landmark in the Uptown district, was closed during a period of unrest and restricted street activity in late June 2020 following the killing of George Floyd. The image documents police presence along the largely empty commercial corridor near Hennepin Avenue and Lagoon Avenue during overnight street closures.

Uptown Theater Marquee: ‘We’re Not Open’, Minneapolis Police

Boarded storefront murals at Fifth Element on Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis, June 2020.
Boarded storefronts at Fifth Element on Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis are covered with murals and protest messages in June 2020. The plywood panels include hand-painted portraits, “Black Lives Matter” text, and a memorial sign for George Floyd, whose killing on May 25, 2020, led many businesses across Minneapolis to install protective boarding.

Fifth Element Murals, Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis Uprising

Boarded Spectacle Shoppe and Fifth Element on Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, covered with George Floyd murals.
The Spectacle Shoppe and Fifth Element on Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis are boarded up and covered with murals and messages referencing George Floyd and Black Lives Matter. Photographed in late June 2020, the storefronts combine business signage with painted tributes, protest text, and portraits across the plywood panels.

Hennepin Ave Stores Boarded, George Floyd Murals, Minneapolis

Empty Lake Street at Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis during a police closure at night.
Lake Street at Hennepin Avenue in Uptown Minneapolis is shown at night during a police street closure on June 27, 2020. The normally busy commercial corridor appears largely empty, with boarded storefront windows and murals visible along the block. Minneapolis police imposed weekend closures in the area at the time in response to large late-night car gatherings in the entertainment district.

Uptown Minneapolis: Lake Street at Hennepin Ave Police Closure

Minneapolis Police Department vehicles parked outside the Public Works Maintenance Facility beside U.S.
This city fleet maintenance garage sits downtown next to Target Field, its service bays holding municipal vehicles for repair work. Minneapolis Police squad cars are parked outside the building and inside the open bay, among the vehicles serviced at the facility.

City Fleet Garage Beside Target Field at Night

Flowers and George Floyd memorial outside Cup Foods at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis after rain.
George Floyd Square at Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis is pictured outside Cup Foods on June 23, 2020. Flowers and memorial offerings cover the wet street after rain near the storefront where George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police a month earlier. A large mural on the building and handwritten signs mark the site as a place of mourning, remembrance, and protest.

George Floyd Square, Cup Foods, Flowers after Summer Rain

Handwritten sign at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis asks visitors not to discard memorial offerings.
A handwritten sign at George Floyd Square in Minneapolis asks visitors not to discard offerings left at the memorial at Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street. The sign is placed beside containers filled with wilted flowers and other tributes, underscoring efforts to preserve materials left in the days after George Floyd was killed in May 2020. George Floyd Square became both a memorial site and a protest space, where notes, signs, and offerings were treated as part of the public remembrance.

George Floyd Square: Do Not Discard Offerings Sign

George Floyd Square memorial at Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis after a storm, with a rainbow.
George Floyd Square at Chicago Avenue and East 38th Street in Minneapolis is shown on June 23, 2020, with floral tributes surrounding the raised fist sculpture and a rainbow visible after a storm. The intersection became a memorial after George Floyd was murdered by police here on May 25, 2020.

George Floyd Square Memorial, Minneapolis Storm with Rainbow

Tent encampment at Powderhorn Park in Minneapolis after residents were displaced from the Sheraton shelter.
A large tent encampment covers part of Powderhorn Park in Minneapolis in June 2020. The camp formed after many unhoused residents were displaced from “The Sanctuary” at the Sheraton Minneapolis Midtown Hotel and moved to the park.

Powderhorn Park Eviction Encampment, Minneapolis

Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct behind barricades and razor wire in south Minneapolis, June 2020.
The Minneapolis Police Department’s 5th Precinct in south Minneapolis is shown behind concrete barricades, chain-link fencing, and razor wire in June 2020. Graffiti on the barriers includes “GEORGE FLOYD” and “Justice 4 Floyd,” linking the fortifications to the unrest that followed Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police. The temporary security perimeter turned the station and the street in front of it into a heavily controlled area during that period.

Minneapolis Police 5th Precinct, George Floyd Barricades

Razor wire and concrete barricades outside Minneapolis Police Fourth Precinct in North Minneapolis at night.
The Minneapolis Police Department’s Fourth Precinct in North Minneapolis is shown behind chain-link fencing, concrete barricades, and extensive coils of razor wire on June 23, 2020. The added security surrounded the police station in the weeks after the murder of George Floyd and the protests that followed across Minneapolis. A sign on the fence reading “PLEASE PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING” places the fortifications within the concurrent COVID-19 pandemic.

Minneapolis Police 4th Precinct Razor Wire & Barricades

Minneapolis Police 2nd Precinct in Northeast Minneapolis behind concrete barricades and razor wire, June 2020.
The Minneapolis Police Department Second Precinct station in Northeast Minneapolis is shown behind stacked concrete barricades and coils of razor wire on June 23, 2020. The security perimeter was erected after protests and unrest following the murder of George Floyd in May 2020. Graffiti reading “Hold Fast” is visible on one of the barriers in front of the station.

Minneapolis Police 2nd Precinct with Razor Wire & Barricades