ST. LOUIS PARK, Minn. — Methodist Hospital opened a new George Floyd Memorial Art Exhibit on Friday.
The hospital says it's committed to creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, included and valued.
The all-new exhibit, titled “I Am Not You. You Are Not Me. Healing Begins with Acceptance,” showcases art and offerings left at George Floyd Square.
"Where are all the photos, where are paintings, why are there so many words," asked George Floyd Memorial Director Jeanelle Austin in a speech at the exhibit. "There are words because that is what people had time to do in a moment of urgency."
It was May 25, 2020 when former Minneapolis Police officers killed George Floyd and historic protests followed. The creative signs tell a collective story of grief that are now preserved in the hospital.
A hospital is a space meant to offer healing, but it's also one confronting its own history of racism.
"We wanted to build trust with the community around George Floyd Square," said Methodist Hospital President Jennifer Myster.
This is the first time this specific exhibit has been on display at Methodist Church, however, there are more than 5,000 offerings that have been exhibited at other institutions.
"These few years, we've faced challenges unlike anything we've ever seen and I believe experiencing these expressions will serve as an inspiration and hope for all of us," said Myster.
While fairness is something Floyd's aunt has never stopped fighting for.
"Equality is not an option, it is our birth right," said Angela Harrelson, who's also an activist and a nurse. She came up with the name of the exhibit that also defines Floyd's legacy.
"Think about what you can do," said Harrelson. "You don't even have to say it out loud, but what we have to do together is make a difference."
The exhibit is made possible by the partnership of the George Floyd Global Memorial and Park Nicollet Foundation and is inside the lobby of HealthPartners Frauenshuh Cancer Center.
It's open to the public from Friday, Jan. 6 to Friday, March 3.
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