A special message from CEO Msgr. John Enzler on the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin:
The first principle of social justice is respect and dignity for all human life. We at Catholic Charities do all we can every day to make sure that every person — no matter their color, religion or ethnic background — enjoys the God-given gift of life. For the last year, we have struggled publicly and privately over the death of George Floyd and systemic racism. I could not watch the video of his mistreatment by police without the feeling that we were continuing down a road of death rather than life.
But Tuesday brought the verdict. It was the decision we were waiting for and the decision we needed. In the words of George Floyd’s brother, “I feel like I can breathe again.”
I am so proud of the 12 jurors who made such an important decision, not just for George Floyd, but for equality and the protection of every life. George Floyd was somebody. His life mattered.
Let us recognize this moment for the hope that it is. And then let us continue the dialogue and the drive for true justice for all, while remembering and praying for all those who have lived with injustice in the past.
Yesterday’s decision gives me hope and faith in our system.