George Floyd’s Death Sparked a Movement—But Is It Fading Five Years Later?

As the nation observes the fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s tragic death, a recent Pew Research Center study paints a bleak picture: the intensified focus on racial issues post-2020 protests has not markedly improved conditions for Black individuals. After Floyd was killed by ex-officer Derek Chauvin, public engagement surged, leading to a peak in Black Lives Matter support at 67%. Fast forward to today, and only 27% feel any significant change has occurred. The survey from February 2025 reveals that 72% believe life for Black Americans remains unchanged. Moreover, the optimism among Democrats dwindled from 70% to just 34%. While some still champion the cause, corporate backing for DEI initiatives is waning, reflecting broader societal fatigue regarding racial discussions.