Minneapolis honored George Floyd today (June 4) with a memorial service limited to family, friends and private invitees, but attended by hundreds of thousands of supporters virtually. Our very own Hezekiah Walker, who performed, was among the attendees.
“Today was a moment for me as I thought about how the Bible teaches that your gift will make room for you and bring you before great men,” Walker said after the service. “Sometimes we record songs not knowing who it will touch. I had no idea that “Every Praise” would bless the world like this. I had no idea that I would get a call to perform the song for George Floyd’s memorial service.”
Other figures on site included Rev. Al Sharpton who provided the eulogy, civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and three of Floyd’s family members who shared their memories and messages regarding their beloved kin. Kevin Hart, T.I., Master P, Ludacris, Rep. Ilhan Omar, Rep. Ayanna Pressley and more were also at the service, according to reports.
In a statement released by North Central University where the memorial service was held, officials said: “North Central University is honored to have been asked to serve as the location for the Minneapolis funeral service for Mr. George Floyd. As a Christian university situated in the heart of Minneapolis, we strive to be good citizens and good neighbors. Our hope is that our sanctuary will provide a space of welcome and warmth for Mr. Floyd’s loved ones and their guests during this time of remembrance and worship.”
Floyd was killed by police officer Derek Chauvin who was charged with second-degree murder, which was increased from his original third-degree charge after nationwide protests against racial profiling, discrimination and excessive force by police. Yesterday (June 3), the additional cops involved in the incident were fired and charged as well.
Floyd will be laid to rest in his Houston hometown on Monday, June 6 from 12 – 6 p.m. CT at the Fountain of Praise Church, with all expenses paid for by boxing champ, Floyd Mayweather. A public memorial in Houston will follow on June 9 at 11 a.m. CT.
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