Commentary: Archbishop John C. Wester’s statement on the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin:
Yesterday’s verdict in the George Floyd murder trial is one step toward accountability, toward a measure of justice for the family of George Floyd, and toward building a more just world free of racism and systemic violence against the Black community. We know we have much more work to do to build a more just society. We must continue the prayers and stand up to bigotry and racism in our country.
Last year, shortly after the killing of George Floyd, the African American Catholic Community and I hosted a prayer service remembering his life and the lives of so many other Black and Brown men, women and children who have died as a result of racist actions. We prayed for an end to racism in our country and church. We prayed for healing and peace in our communities. We also prayed for police officers and their families, and for all of those who raised their voices and engaged in peaceful protests against police killings of people of color in the U.S. I continue that prayer today. I stand in solidarity with all of those who seek peace and justice in the midst of daily threats of violence, and call for all to seek the common good of all through prayer and non-violent action.