Black Lives Matter: How George Floyd's death changed the fight for racial justice in five years

On May 25, 2020, in Minneapolis, a white police officer named Derek Chauvin pressed his knee into George Floyd's neck till he was left gasping for air and ultimately lost his life in the process. This incident sparked worldwide outrage. (Image: AP)

The 'Black Lives Matter' movement was a direct reply to the systemic racial injustice rooted in the Western world. Protests, both online and offline, were successful in garnering attention and support for George Floyd's cause and victims of everyday racism across the globe. (Image: AP)

Following the incident, the police department of Minneapolis fired all four officers involved. A 12-member jury found Derek Chauvin guilty of unintentional second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. The prosecution presented evidence that Floyd died due to a lack of oxygen. (Image: AP)

George Floyd's last words were "I can't breathe" as the police officer pinned him down for eight minutes and 46 seconds. Chauvin did not remove his knee from Floyd's neck for more than 1 minute after he lost full consciousness. A family member of Floyd was seen wearing a t-shirt that said "Forever breathing for you" on Sunday. (Image: AP)

The BLM movement highlights the importance of intersectionality, addressing how race, class, gender, and sexuality shape the world we live in and the decisions we make each and every day. The movement not only accumulated support online, but it also led to people marching on the streets, calling out injustice all across the globe. (Image: AP)

Thousands of people gathered in the George Floyd Square on Sunday to mark the five-year anniversary of George Floyd's passing. People paid their respects at a memorial in front of Cup Woods, the spot where Floyd was killed. (Image: AP)

People gathered from all over in remembrance of George Floyd. The events on Sunday started with music, a street festival, and a self-care fair. People also participated in a candlelight vigil, a gospel concert, and speeches that centered around racial justice. (Image: AP)