The death of an African-American man, George Floyd, at the hands of police in Minneapolis has sparked violent protests across the USA. Photo: Getty
Mass protests over the killing of George Floyd are in their sixth consecutive day across cities in the United States. While the African American community in particular, and the wider community around them are engulfed in visible, visceral pain, the grief has transcended beyond the country’s borders, touching everyone everywhere.
As Americans march in solidarity for black lives and rise up against the systemic and institutionalized frameworks of their nation, many of us outside the United States are looking for ways to get involved too. While there is no doubt that conversation will always be a core component of the cure; providing change as much as catharsis, in moments of unfair, untimely and undeserving grief, monetary contributions play as important a part in making things right. If donating is a viable option for you, here are five places you can donate in support of George Floyd and those like him.
1. Official George Floyd Memorial Fund
Set up by George’s brother, Philonise Floyd, funds donated to this GoFundMe will cover funeral and burial expenses, mental and grief counseling, lodging and travel for all court proceedings, and to assist the Floyd family in the days to come as they continue to seek justice for George. A portion of the funds will also go to the Estate of George Floyd for the benefit and care of his children and their educational expenses. While all contributions are welcome via the GoFundMe link, Philonise also lists a physical address for anyone wishing to send cards, letters, or words of encouragement.
2. The NAACP Legal Defense Fund
In a bid to achieve racial justice through advocacy, litigation, and education, the NAACP Legal Defense Fund is America’s premier legal organization fighting for structural change. Pillars of the organization include expanding democracy, eliminating disparity, and seeking justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans. Donations can be made via the website on a once-off or monthly basis.
3. The American Civil Liberties Union
In existence for over 100 years, the ACLU has been consistent in its fight for freedom. Placing the protection of constitutional rights at the core of their agenda, the organization provides legal services and support for a broad range of people with civil rights complaints. This includes but is not limited to immigration, voting rights, human rights, free speech, and criminal justice. Donations can be made via the website on a once-off or monthly basis.
4. Communities United Against Police Brutality
Using advocacy, political action and education to overcome the perils of police brutality, CUAPB is an all-volunteer organization whose mission was conceived following the shooting of Charles Sanders by Minneapolis police. Having worked on cases for two decades, the organization works to combat police brutality from many angles, including political and legislative action, research, and providing services and support for victims and their families. Donations can be made via PayPal on the organization’s website.
Set up by former NFL player, Colin Kaepernick, the Know Your Rights Camp works to advance the liberation and well-being of Black and Brown communities through education, self-empowerment, and mass-mobilization. With a mission that aims to create new systems of elevation for the next generation of leaders, the organization is centered around 10 fundamental rights. Among them; the right to be healthy, loved, safe, and free. Donations can be made via the website on a once-off or monthly basis.
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