A Message from Our Office

Wednesday, April 28, 2021 | The Office of Arts, Culture & the Creative Economy

Photo: Creatives After Curfew

Now that the trial of Derek Chauvin has concluded and he has been found guilty on all counts for the murder of George Floyd, our office is pausing to reflect on what this historic moment means and the role that arts and culture has played and continues to play in support of the movement for justice and Black lives. We wish to express our appreciation for Black artists across the cities who have been working  tirelessly to hold space through the trial for the community to come together, look for answers and grieve.

We also hold the family and friends of George Floyd in our thoughts and hearts in hope that this result provides them some measure of relief and opens the way for healing even though it does not bring George Floyd back to them.

While the conviction of Derek Chauvin is a historic and important step toward racial reckoning in this country, we are also reminded, yet again, through the killing of Daunte Wright and the continued loss of Black lives that a guilty verdict does not undo centuries of racial injustice and white supremacy. Which is why we must all do our part to address systemic inequities where we find them.  

We stand with others who are working for community well-being and a better future for everyone by addressing systemic racial inequities. The Office of Arts, Culture & the Creative Economy continues its efforts to eliminate racial disparities and reaffirms its commitment to support and hire artists identifying as Black, Indigenous and people of color to work with City staff on addressing systemic racial inequities within the City of Minneapolis. Learn about our work to address systems change through the arts here.

In solidarity,

Staff of the Office of Arts, Culture & the Creative Economy