George Clooney calls for 'lasting change' in wake of George Floyd's death

George Clooney has joined many other celebrities in making their voice heard in calling for a lasting change and ending racism following the death of black American George Floyd in Minneapolis.

To do that, Clooney, in an essay, urged the United States citizens to vote, as it is the only way to bring about lasting change.

Clooney's essay, which was published by the Daily Beast stated that Floyd was indeed murdered.

The 46-year-old Floyd was arrested for allegedly buying cigarettes using a fake bill at a corner store.

Footage of his arrest showed then police officer Derek Chauvin shoving his knee on the back of Floyd's neck while he was on his stomach on the ground. The white police officer held his position despite Floyd shouting that he couldn't breathe.

Floyd eventually became unconscious and died later in the hospital.

Chauvin was dismissed from service and is now facing a murder charge in the third degree and a manslaughter charge.

In encouraging people to vote, Clooney said that what happened to Floyd had happened to several others in the past. And, the only way to stop it is to have fundamental changes not only in law enforcement but also in the criminal justice system.

The 59-year-old Hollywood star also called out US President Donald Trump, who had tweeted several controversial statements in the wake of the incident.

In one of the President's tweets, he had seemingly threatened that "when the looting starts, the shooting starts."

Several looting and riots have been occurring alongside the protests that have been happening in the big cities of the US.

Clooney penned that instead of leaders who encouraged violence and hatred, the country needs leaders who can make policies that are fair to all its citizens regardless of color and race.

Clooney, though expressed the hopes that no one else will die in the protests.

While Clooney is doing his part by penning the essay, other celebrities have joined the protest, others have used their social media accounts to urge their followers to help end racism while others are donating money to pay for bail and legal needs of those who are arrested in the protest.

Image credit courtesy of John Bauld/Flickr