Retired NBA player Stephen Jackson, who spent 14 years in the league playing for multiple teams, is calling for justice after his longtime friend George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police Monday.
Video of Floyd’s arrest and death at the hands of officers has sparked widespread condemnation and protests across the United States.
All four officers involved in the incident have been fired, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has called for charges to be pressed against the officer who pinned Floyd.
Thursday, Jackson did multiple interviews including an appearance on NBC’s “Today Show,” sharing memories of Floyd and speaking out for justice.
“A lot of police brutality has gone on, a lot of black young men have died. George Floyd’s name will be remembered because we’re going to get change. Change is going to start with George Floyd. We’re going to get change. This is not right.”
Jackson, who called Floyd “Twin” due to their striking resemblance, was introduced by a mutual friend.
“We always hung together, every time we went to Houston it was my first stop… Being a professional athlete, so many people abuse your friendship and your kindness and he was one of those people that genuinely supported me.”
The tragedy has been devastating for Floyd’s family, Jackson, and the community.
“I know my brother [Floyd]. He’s not gonna make no cry out like that if he’s really not in pain. If he’s really not scared,” Jackson said in an interview on the morning show “The Breakfast Club.” “For him to cry out like that, my boy was really terrified, man. He was really terrified. And I hate the world seeing him like this.”
Thursday, Jackson posted that a rally for justice for Floyd will be held Friday in downtown Minneapolis.