BASW comments as jury finds Derek Chauvin guilty of the murder of George Floyd

‘We must not become complacent- as we still have a mountain to climb to ensure we eradicate institutional, structural, and systemic racism.’

Today a US jury has found a former police officer guilty of murder over the death of George Floyd.

Shantel Thomas, BASW Anti-racism lead Wales/Cymru, Northern Ireland and Scotland; Narinder Sidhu BASW Equality and Diversity Lead – UK; Wayne Reid, BASW Anti-racism lead, England share reactions to the news.

My heart goes out to George Floyd’s family and all those that have worked behind the scenes to secure the result we saw yesterday. 

The jury did the right thing by returning the GUILTY verdict on all three counts of murder and manslaughter, but TRUE justice will take much, much more. 

We must not become complacent- as we still have a mountain to climb to ensure we eradicate institutional, structural, and systemic racism. 

This is one tiny step in that direction.

I share the dream that one day my children and grandchildren will live in a nation where they are not judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character. 

BASW will continue to fight the good fight.  We press on!!!!!   

Shantel Thomas

Anti-Racism Lead

BASW’s thoughts are with George and his family.

I am still disturbed by hearing people now speaking of justice prevailing in a criminal justice system that outrightly murdered George in the first place.

I think whilst the verdict brings relief for many it has also bought much distress and trauma too – we have been at pivotal moments like this many times before.

I can only hope that verdict triggers major change to the brutality that exists globally.

BASW will continue to challenge and break down the racial disparities that exist in many forms in the UK.

Narinder Sidhu

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead Officer

The guilty verdict found against Derek Chauvin for murdering George Floyd is a bittersweet victory over White supremacy, but it must not be confused as justice. 

Justice implies true restoration. 

Justice involves dismantling and transforming the systems that oppress us. 

Yes, this guilty verdict is a demonstration of accountability for a brutal murder and a necessary step towards justice – but we DEMAND justice!

Wayne Reid

BASW Anti-racism lead, England

BASW has made a priority of promoting anti-racism and anti-discrimination of all forms within social work practice and policy.

We must stand together as one to fight institutional racism, structural racism and social injustices, and work together to promote a society based on fairness and justice.