This was the reaction on Arch Street in Albany: Chauvin guilty on all counts. #chauvinverdict pic.twitter.com/5O3HsjTi5R

— Robert Gavin (@RobertGavinTU) April 20, 2021

State and local officials and activists released statements shortly after a jury found on April 20 Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin guilty of the murder of George Floyd last year. Chauvin was recorded kneeling on Floyd's neck for almost ten minutes. Here is what the verdict reading sounded like for a group of protesters encamped on Arch Street in Albany from a recording Robert Gavin of the Times Union made as Chauvin was found guilty on all counts. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OR PLAY BRIEF CLIP. Melo Rabii was one of the protesters in Albany. “This isn’t a feeling we’re used to,” he said, looking toward a sign with the names of over 40 Black Americans killed by police. “As a race, we’re always prepared for the worst.” Hudson Mayor Kamal Johnson posted on Facebook, "This verdict, shows exactly why the work for racial justice is extremely important. We must continue to create paths of healing by transforming structures of systematic racism. Justice for Black and Brown Americans is justice for all Americans. Consistency will be the key to a better future for all." Gov. Andrew Cuomo released a statement that said, in part, that "while I'm grateful the jury returned these verdicts, accountability is not the same as justice. It doesn't make an unacceptable situation acceptable, and it doesn't bring Gianna's dad back." New York Senator Chuck Schumer posted, "We must remain diligent in our efforts to bring meaningful change to police departments across the country.... The Senate will continue that work as we strive to ensure George Floyd’s tragic death will not be in vain.” New York Attorney General Letitia James wrote on Twitter, "I pray that the Floyd family finds some semblance of justice and peace for this horribly unjust act." Rep. Antonio Delgado, of the 19th Congressional District, wrote on Facebook, that, "while the verdict by itself will not heal the devastatingly deep and tragically persistent wounds our nation carries born of racial oppression, may it inspire us all to earnestly and thoughtfully, with love in our hearts, confront the scourge of racism that lives with us daily." Rep. Paul Tonko, whose district includes Albany County, posted on Twitter that, "The evidence in this case was overwhelming, as are the lessons and commitments for change we must take from it."