George Floyd, who grew up in the Third Ward of Houston within Cuney Homes, tragically passed away five years ago. Following his death, several friends from his childhood travelled to Minnesota, determined to ensure that the circumstances surrounding his death were thoroughly examined.

Cal Wayne was one of those people.

“He meant so much to me when it happened; I jumped in the car and rode 22 hours to Minnesota to see what happened,” said the longtime Houston rapper.

Our paths first crossed with Cal Wayne and a few others who knew Floyd in their youth in front of a now well-known blue mural of George Floyd on Winbern. Though the mural remains, it has lost some vibrancy, and the streets are a bit calmer. Regardless, this area continues to be Floyd’s community, preserving his legacy and the memories shared.

“He was like a brother to me,” expressed Wayne, who had included Floyd in his early rap videos. “Floyd was the first person I truly admired, the one who set up the milk crates for us to play basketball as kids. He was tall and would hammer them on trees for us,” said Wayne, reminiscing fondly.

He was known as “Big Floyd” in the neighborhood because of his height and towering presence. When Floyd died that fateful day in May 2020, the lives of those who called him family were also forever changed.

“To see my friend and a guy that I was born and raised with, who we said is like brothers, for him to be on the ground like that, you know, it sparked the change,” childhood friend Travis Cains said.

“It sparked the person who wanted to get up, be active, and be more of an advocate.”

Cains participated in the rallies, protests, and calls for justice. He keeps in close touch with Floyd’s daughter, Gianna, and her mother, Roxie Washington. They dream about George Floyd’s legacy, which has yet to be fully realized.

Cains said, “Through the grace of God, it’s going to get done.”

RELATED: 5 years after George Floyd’s death, Minneapolis police work to rebuild trust

Wayne has channeled the pain into new music, and several recordings honor George Floyd’s memory.

“I really knew, Lord, like I really, really knew him, I idolized him.”

Cal Wayne, Travis Cains, Roxie Washington, and Gianna Floyd are a tight group of friends working together to build a foundation, a community center, and a more permanent legacy for Big Floyd.

“I know he’s looking down on me. I can just imagine what he’s saying. Like, I knew big brother got me. It always ever happened.”

On Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., George Floyd’s family and friends will gather for a five-year remembrance event to honor him. The public is invited to Emancipation Park at 3018 Emancipation Avenue.

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