Minneapolis, June 5 (RHC)-- In Minnesota, mourners gathered Thursday for a memorial service honoring the life of George Floyd, the African American man whose death at the hands of Minneapolis police sparked a nationwide uprising against racism and police brutality.

During the tribute, mourners stood in silence for eight minutes and 46 seconds -- the amount of time police officer Derek Chauvin kneeled on Floyd’s neck as he pleaded for his life. 

Reverend Al Sharpton, a long-time activist for civil rights, delivered the eulogy.  Rev. Al Sharpton said: “What happened to Floyd happens every day in this country, in education, in health services and in every area of American life.  It’s time for us to stand up in George’s name and say: 'Get your knee off our necks!'”