The family of George Floyd responded to a controversial social media post published by the Las Vegas Raiders in the wake of the Derek Chauvin trial.
The Raiders on Tuesday posted a graphic saying "I can breathe" and "4-21-20," meant as a tribute to Floyd after Chauvin was found guilty on all charges, including second-degree murder.
Many prominent athletes, journalists, pundits and fans responded negatively to the post -- but on Wednesday, Floyd's brother Philonise released a statement expressing appreciation for the Raiders' gesture.
"On behalf of our family, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Las Vegas Raiders organization and its leadership for their support of our family and for our nation's ongoing pursuit of justice and equality for all," Philonise Floyd said in a statement released by his attorney.
"Now, more than ever, we must come together as one and continue on in this fight. For the first time in almost a year, our family has taken a breath. And I know that goes for so many across the nation and globe, as well. Let's take this breath together in honor of my big brother who couldn't. Let's do it for George."
On Tuesday, responding to media requests for comment on the apparent backlash to the post, Raiders owner Mark Davis told multiple outlets that he was personally responsible for the post, and that he wouldn't delete it.
The post was inspired by Philonise Floyd himself, who had used a similar expression in the wake of the verdict earlier on Tuesday, Davis said.
The phrase "I can't breathe" has become a rally cry for protesters and activists seeking to end police brutality and systemic injustice. Tragically, they were among Floyd's last words, as well as those of Eric Garner, who died in 2014 during a seemingly senseless struggle with NYPD officers over what was at most a trivial infraction.
Several NBA players wore shirts emblazoned with "I can't breathe" during pregame warmups following Garner's passing.
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