April 30th 2024.
The City of Minneapolis recently reached a settlement with Donald Williams, a 35-year-old mixed martial arts fighter who witnessed the tragic murder of George Floyd and tried to intervene. The city council unanimously approved a payment of $150,000 to Williams, and it was deemed unnecessary to discuss the matter further. Williams has stated that he continues to struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder from the traumatic events he witnessed that day.
Williams first filed a lawsuit against the city in 2023, alleging that he was assaulted by police while attempting to prevent Floyd's death in 2020. According to the lawsuit, former police officer Derek Chauvin, who kneeled on Floyd's neck for nine minutes, threatened Williams and other bystanders with a can of chemical spray. Another officer, Tou Thao, then placed his hand on Williams' chest, causing him to fear for his safety and endure physical and emotional pain, humiliation, and medical expenses.
The settlement comes after Williams' crucial testimony during the trial of Chauvin, as reported by The Guardian. Williams, who has a background in MMA and wrestling, provided valuable insight into the effects of chokeholds on the human body. However, the trauma of witnessing Floyd's murder has taken a toll on Williams, as he shared with the outlet in 2021. "We're all dealing with it. It's trauma," he said.
During the trial, Williams explained his reason for calling the police on the police, stating, "Because I believe I witnessed a murder." When asked if he feared for his safety since the incident, Williams replied, "Of course, I'm fearful for my safety. I'm a Black man in America." This fear is unfortunately all too common for Black individuals in a country plagued by systemic racism.
The settlement also represents a larger reckoning with the Minneapolis Police Department, as reported by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The department is currently under investigation by the Department of Justice for its discriminatory practices. And the aftermath of Floyd's murder alone has cost the city nearly $50 million.
In light of this settlement, it is clear that the impact of Floyd's murder extends far beyond one man's life. It has caused trauma and pain to those who witnessed it, and it has brought attention to the systemic issues within the Minneapolis Police Department. As we move forward, it is crucial to continue holding institutions accountable and fighting for justice and equality for all.
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