WASHINGTON— Today, Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) released the following statement in response to one year since the passing of George Floyd.

“In the year since the passing of George Floyd, our nation has seen both great trials and tribulations but also promising progress. Progress is not defunding the police; it is bettering the community and police relationship. Progress is not looting or destroying neighborhoods in the name of seeking justice. Progress is recognizing that America is not a systematically racist nation and that the actions of bad police officers do not define the heart of the men and women who swear an oath and dutifully protect our communities.

"Reforms are undoubtedly needed, but this does not include getting rid of qualified immunity and does not require the heavy hand of the federal government. As one of only three Black Republicans in Congress and a proud American, I pray we live up to the words of Abraham Lincoln, 'We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies, and may the better angels of our nature touch us all.'"