WHAT THEY’RE SAYING IN OHIO
Reactions from Ohio political leaders and local arts representatives on the guilty verdicts in the trial of Derek Chauvin:
“Our system of justice worked. The jury members listened to both sides, weighed the evidence, and came to this verdict. As we go forward as a nation, we must learn from the tragic death of George Floyd.”
Gov. Mike Dewine
“While today is a tremendous step, we know this isn't the end of oppression, racism and injustice in America. Far from it. But it is my hope that today's verdict can serve as a turning point in the movement to dismantle racist systems, hold those sworn to protect us to a higher standard, and move us a step closer to building a more perfect Union where Black lives truly matter.”
U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-columbus
“What Derek Chauvin did to George Floyd is murder. He killed more than a man – he nearly killed the hope of justice. The jury called it murder, and restored that hope. Chauvin dishonored his badge and a noble profession. That should weigh heavily in his sentencing hearing.”
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, R
“George Floyd's death was tragic and should never happen to anyone in America. I am grateful today that justice appears to be served as we await sentencing.”
Sen. Rob Portman, R
“While the jury reached the right decision, no verdict will change the fact that George Floyd should still be alive today. We all have much more work to do in the fight for racial justice and for a fairer legal and criminal justice system. Our hearts are with Mr.
Floyd's family and loved ones, as well as with Ohioans who have been hurting as we watched this trial unfold.”
Ohio Democratic Party Chairwoman Liz Walters
“The verdict (Tuesday) in Minnesota brings crucial accountability to an egregious act of police brutality. Although it will not fill the void created by the death of George Floyd, I am hopeful that this verdict will help lead to necessary change.
“Tragically, our nation and the city of Columbus are no stranger to the tragedy that has occurred in the Minneapolis community. We must continue the fight toward accountability, transparency and a more just law enforcement system . ... We must continue our pursuit of justice. Our fight goes on. Justice must be served.”
State Sen. Hearcel Craig, D-columbus
“I rarely cry, but I cried when I saw that there was a guilty verdict. I've been so used to the people acquitted for things like that. I got emotional, and I think it stems from the fact that could have been me . ... I could have been walking somewhere, and I could have been George Floyd. Then I had hope that things will begin to change, but I know change is a long-term thing. You have to keep working.”
Byron Stripling, artistic director, Columbus Jazz Orchestra
“I was thankful that the verdict was guilty. It took so much for that to happen that it doesn't necessarily make me think that anything has changed yet. The fact that it took so much to get the conviction just is a somber reminder that there is still a lot of work to do.
“With regards to the shooting in Columbus, the most unfortunate part is that it's coming right on the heels of everything that's already been happening, and the fact that it's close to home was very jarring.”