Statement from Mayor McEnerny-Ogle on the death of George Floyd:

Like many in our community, and throughout the entire country, I was shocked and saddened by the death of George Floyd. On behalf of the City Council, I extend our condolences to the Floyd family and all the communities profoundly affected by this trauma. 

Over the past few days, demonstrators have gathered in many cities to protest Mr. Floyd's death. Peaceful, meaningful demonstration is an exercise of our right to free speech and assembly, but it is unfortunate when these protests, including the one in Portland last night, devolve into unlawful, destructive and dangerous activity. The outrage at the root of these protests is understandable but I hope we will see peaceful demonstration and dialogue as the path forward. 

Here in Vancouver, we will continue to protect our community with the professionalism and respect that preserves rights and free speech while effectively serving public safety needs. I am proud to serve as Mayor of a community that honors our differences, values peaceful assembly and exercises its voice without violence. I have the utmost confidence in the Vancouver community to remain peaceful.

Again, I want to express profound sadness over the tragic loss of Mr. Floyd. I also want to express our support to Portland and other cities across the country who have suffered as a result of events over the past several days, but also a recognition that while physical damage to buildings can be repaired, the pain, anger and frustration this damage represents must also be healed.