WASHINGTON, DC — In response to breaking news that former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was sentenced to 22.5 years for the murder of George Floyd, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“People For the American Way is disappointed by the sentencing of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd. No police officer who murders unarmed people should catch a break. Chauvin’s crime, cruelty, and abuse of his role as an officer required the maximum sentence asked by prosecutors. The pursuit of justice does not stop with Chauvin’s sentencing, and we must have full accountability of law enforcement officers and agencies that allow Black people to be killed with impunity. We must also recognize that the systemic failures to keep every American safe, including people of color, people in the LGBTQ community and people with disabilities, run deeper than the actions of a few bad apples. There is still much work to do to change reckless, deadly policing policies and make public safety a priority.”

About People For the American Way People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more:https://www.pfaw.org.