Murder trial of George Floyd opens with video of white policeman kneeling on his neck; COVID-19 cases and deaths rise in U.S.; Environmental groups sue Kern County oil permits; State lawmakers propose Millionaire Tax

Comprehensive coverage of the day’s news with a focus on war and peace; social, environmental and economic justice.

• The murder trial of white policeman who killed black man, George Floyd, begins with disturbing video.
• COVID-19 infections and deaths on the rise, President Joe Biden urges safety precautions.
• Police release video of officers threatening 5 year old boy with a beating, after he walks out of school.
• 10 years after Arab Spring, movement has dwindled in Middle East, but remains alive in Tunisia.
• New York lawmakers reach deal to legalize recreational marijuana.
• California lawmakers introduce Millionaire Tax to curb economic inequality.
• Environmental groups sue Kern County’s oil and gas drilling plans.

Photo screenshot of cellphone video of Officer Derek Chauvin kneeling on George Floyd’s neck, killing him.