Minneapolis’ Annual Rise and Remember event draws crowds for the 6th Anniversary of George Floyd's Death.
He was killed by former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin at 38th and Chicago in 2020.
Hundreds of members of the public, George Floyd's family, and Governor Tim Walz attended the festival that's grown significantly in relevance against the backdrop of Minnesota's evolving political landscape.
Vendors involved in the event say it's an example of the community's resilience as well as a reminder of one of the state's darkest days.
“ For me it's not really a celebration in a way, you know, of course celebration of life and community, but like it's just bittersweet.” said vendor Aurora Belm.
LeAnne Koskela says the event is a source of peace for her.
“6 years later I think most of us are feeling pretty strong, hopeful, and looking forward to more of the future.”
Organizers say they're continuing to work to expand the festival's size to grow its reach each and every year.
The event featured a candlelight vigil, live performances and an awards ceremony recognizing local racial justice initiatives.
Vendor Greg Graham says the event is a bittersweet one every year.
“ It just gives me flashes of what went on, and how it went down ” says Graham, “ If it could have been different, where would we be now if it had gone down different, a lot of that is in my head.”
Organizers emphasized that this year's gathering serves as a final send-off to the intersection's current layout, as the city prepares to initiate a major street reconstruction project in the area next month.
