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Houston, TX — While Tuesday was the final farewell for many people, for others, it meant the beginning of something greater, as family and prominent members of the black and political community attended George Floyd’s funeral in Houston at The Fountain of Praise Church.
The private event was live-streamed by media from all around the world. On Momday, hundreds also paid their respects to him during his memorial which was also held at The Fountain of Praise Church.
George Floyd was a completely anonymous citizen 16 days ago, but now his name stands for a bigger cause, as did his funeral. It honored the fight against racism and it was a call to justice.
While it was another hot day in Houston, the attendees made a point to show up; frustration overcame the fear of contagion from COVID-19. While the gospel music played in the background, people started arriving for the funeral.
Some dressed in black as a classic funeral, but others instead dressed in white. Among the people, the white flowers on the stage stood out, matching with the clothes of the victim’s relatives.
As gospel music accelerated its rhythm, people began to stand up. Their bodies began to move, to dance, to show joy. At this time the room was full and although you could feel the sadness and nostalgia, you could also see the hope of the people. You could also feel the joy that George Floyd’s family was looking for. They wanted the event to be a celebration of Floyd’s life and not his farewell.
After a while, the pastors made an initial greeting warning that the funeral had to be a celebration where people can cry but also dance. Then followed some speeches and finally, they showed a video.
Among the people who spoke was Reverend Al Sharpton, who expressed, “This was not a tragedy, but a crime,” during his eulogy. Sharpton also recognized other families in the audience whose loved ones have been killed by police.
“We must commit to this family — all of these families, all of his children, grandchildren and all — that until these people pay for what they did, that we’re going to be there with them. Because lives like George’s will not matter until somebody pays the cost for taking their lives,” Sharpton stated.
Floyd’s brothers also spoke, claiming that ‘they want justice and peace’ and expressed happiness that their brother is going to change the world.
George Floyd has become an icon for the fight against racism. Perhaps this was the last opportunity for family and friends to say goodbye, but this does not end here. Gospel music will continue to play in the background and the fight against racism will too.
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