Jan. 6 insurrection
At the start of 2021 on Jan 6., former president Trump supporters from all around the country traveled and broke into the United States Capital building in Washington, DC over the results of the 2021 presidential election. Many stole items from the capital, with some even threatening the lives of lawmakers including Vice President Pence, who was in charge of confirming the votes that evening. The insurrection headlined both national and international news for weeks and investigations in regards to those involved being sentenced are still pending. This was an event that has made American history and will not soon be forgotten.
Derek Chauvin guilty of all charges
Derek Chauvin, the officer who put his knee on the neck of George Floyd, was found guilty of all charges. The incident was caught on tape in the summer of 2020 and arose protests across the world. Many were coming together in demands of justice for Floyd who died at the scene. On April 21 of 2021, Chauvin was charged with second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Chauvin is however appealing the convictions and the other officers involved are scheduled for trial in March of 2022.
Bill Cosby freed from prison
Bill Cosby, a comedian, TV personality, and spokesman was released from prison where he was serving a sentence for many sexual assault charges and over 60 allegations. These allegations sparked the “Me Too” movement, encouraging women who had been sexually abused or assaulted to come forward to speak their truth. Because of a previously overlooked agreement, the Philadelphia Supreme Court had no choice but to release him. Many of those who were a part of that movement and were relieved when Cosby had been sentenced were distraught at his release.
Juneteenth announced as federal holiday
Earlier this year federal lawmakers passed a bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday. The holiday marks the commemoration of when enslaved people in Texas had learned that slavery has been abolished. This was significant as this was the last group of enslaved people to learn the news. For the first time in 2021, many jobs and stores closed in celebration of the holiday, allowing those who celebrate the time off. Many activist had been fighting to make this a reality for years and were excited to see it finally come to fruition. President Biden stated, “Great nations don’t ignore their most painful moments,” as he signed the bill into law.
