CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers have released a statement regarding the tragic death of George Floyd, the Minneapolis man whose death at the hands of police in Minneapolis has touched off nationwide protests over racial injustice.
“The death of George Floyd is heartbreaking, appalling and tragic. Our collective humanity suffers greatly in the midst of senseless acts like this. Not just now, but always. Unfortunately, there are many other examples and the impact continues to resonate and reverberate far beyond the place and time each specifically occurs. These situations touch and reduce ALL of us.
We believe All for One really does mean ALL. Thus, ALL of us, both individually and as organizations and communities, have a responsibility to speak up and try to influence and help end horrible situations and outcomes like this. Let’s all respond with a sense of urgency and deeper determination to make life better and work towards a world where everyone feels safe.”
Cavs GM, Kobe Altman and Head Coach J.B. Bickerstaff also released a joint statement regarding the situation. “Our hearts are filled with sadness, disgust and overall frustration as we continue to process the tragic and senseless acts of violence towards yet another individual of the African American community.”
A video showing Floyd's death while being arrested by four police officers went viral. On Friday, Derek Chauvin, the since-fired police officer who was pressing his knee over Floyd's neck, was arrested and charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter.