Police in Miami and New York take the knee for George Floyd
Protests across the US following the death of George Floyd have led to violent scenes but police in Miami and New York have made a show of solidarity.
The death of George Floyd has caused disturbances across the United States but police officers in Coral Gables, Florida, took a different approach to protest marchers when they knelt in remembrance of the 46-year-old. Floyd was allegedly killed by police officer Derek Chauvin, who was filmed kneeling on his neck during an arrest in Minneapolis. Floyd was heard pleading that he could not breath before he stopped talking and went motionless. He was confirmed dead at a nearby hospital.
Protests have been staged across the US after the footage was released and in Coral Gables more than 50 people were detained. However, far from the heavy handed approach of some law enforcement officers in the country, officers in the Florida city showed their solidarity by taking the knee as protesters passed. The marchers followed suit in a gesture that has made headlines across the US.
At least 40 cities imposed curfews to quell the unrest and the National Guard has been deployed in at least 26 states and Washington, DC.
New York police show solidarity with protestors
The same thing happened in New York, where officers took the knee as protestors passed by a precinct in Queens.
Speaking to CNN, local activist Aleeia Abraham said: “I didn’t expect it. It’s amazing and a nice gesture but we’re looking for something concrete. When they don’t kneel on us or shoot us. That’s the moment we’re looking for. It’s a good start, but it’s not enough.”