Businesses Struggle Near George Floyd Square Amid Ongoing Debate

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — Five years after George Floyd‘s murder, businesses near George Floyd Square are suffering due to an ongoing debate about the future of the area. Business owners claim that the lack of clarity on transforming the space is affecting their livelihoods.

Local business owners express frustration over the unresolved conversation. Sam Willis, the owner of Just Turkey restaurant, shared, “Business is very slow in this area. I want to be able to put them through college… but at this point, I’m not able to.” Before Floyd’s death in May 2020, businesses around 38th and Chicago were thriving.

After Floyd’s death, the site turned into a memorial, with business owners struggling to protect their properties during the unrest that followed. Reginald Ferguson, a member of AGAPE, recalled, “We were standing, we were using our bodies to stand there…” Many businesses are still in distress, with owners like Dwight Alexander of Smoke in the Pit emphasizing that this year is crucial for them to be heard.

Newer businesses like PLOT Gallery’s Ace Rice remain optimistic, despite the challenges. “There is at least 12 Black-owned businesses… all on one block,” he noted. Yet, they report that while visitors stop by the Square, many do not shop locally.

Victoria Lauing, owner of Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center, said the area saw more activity before 2020. “Every single storefront here was full. There was a lot of activity. It is different now,” she stated. Business owners worry about losing their connections and whether their voices are being heard in upcoming decisions.

Some owners criticize city officials for not engaging with the local community, saying, “They don’t spend no money on this block… They’re over here telling us what we should do with our community.” The City Council majority supports a plan for a pedestrian mall that honors Floyd while promoting business.

“It’s bigger than a memorial,” AGAPE member Bridgette Stewart stated, stressing their desire for businesses to flourish and remain in the area. The owners’ commitment to their community remains strong despite ongoing struggles.

Edwin Reed, a business owner who has sued the city for failing to protect his establishment, spoke about difficult times during the riots and how the area became a high-crime zone. Minneapolis police often stayed away, leading to community despair. Patrol officer responses have increased in subsequent years, but trust remains fragile.

As city officials continue deliberations, the future of George Floyd Square remains uncertain. Community members hope decisions made will honor Floyd’s legacy while revitalizing local businesses at the same time.