The residents of Orlando are taking their last glances at the “Black Lives Matter” mural on Rosalind Avenue, as it won’t be there anymore once the city starts resurfacing and repainting several downtown streets.
Farewell to Iconic BLM Mural
It’s been close to four years since the mural became a part of the cityscape, but now it’s time to say goodbye as it will be removed due to a city-wide plan focused on enhancing road and pedestrian infrastructure.
Final Chapter for Four-Year Mural
On June 25, Rosalind Avenue became a canvas for the “Black Lives Matter” mural, painted in vibrant Pan-African colors. Now, the well-known mural is expected to be taken down on January 2, 2024.
Symbolism Over Presence
Amidst public surprise about the unpreceded decision, Commissioner Regina Hill of Orlando District 5 stated, “It does not diminish it because the work continues because there was policy put in place and that’s what was so important about the Black Lives Matter Mural, the things that came behind it.”
Major City-Wide Improvements Underway
The decision to take down Orlando’s mural aligns with the city’s broader goals, being a part of its Downtown Quick Build Infrastructure Project. “We need to make sure we are providing a safe and efficient roadway system,” explained the Executive Director of the Downtown Development Board and Community Redevelopment Agency.”
DTO Plan: Roads, Safety, and Beauty
The DTO Downtown Action Plan aims to enhance road conditions, boost safety measures, and improve the overall aesthetics of the area. According to the city’s official website, the project will “dd murals, artistic bulb-outs (or curb extensions) and crosswalks at key intersections along Rosalind Avenue, Orange Avenue and Magnolia Avenue.”
The plan also includes upgrading the “green” bike lane along Rosalind Avenue, extending from Church Street to Concord Street, with additional separation and new “bend-ins” at the crosswalks of intersections.
Orlando Prioritizes Public Voice
Hill emphasized the city’s commitment to re-engaging with the community, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered in decision-making. “We must go back to the people and let them know this is what’s being proposed, and what are your thoughts,” Hill asserted.
Public to Guide Rosalind’s Last Upgrade
Expanding on her statement, Hill said, “The asphalt that we’re going to do here on Rosalind is going to be the last one. So, we will have the appropriate amount of time to make sure that it’s going to be led again by the very people that bought this before us.”
Mixed Reactions to Orlando Mural Decision
The Orlando community is divided over the impending upgrades involving removing the familiar “Black Lives Matter” mural. On one hand, there are those in the community who remain neutral about the decision, agreeing with it as long as it serves the best interest of everyone involved.
Amanda Foster expressed her neutrality, stating, “If they did something of prominence to replace it, I think that’s fine,” she said
Rising Skepticism Over Decision Motives
Meanwhile, there are those who question the necessity of removing the mural and its relevance to street improvements, casting doubt on the decision’s motives. Matthew Heckman is among them, expressing his desire for the mural to remain. “I think they should just keep it up. Why are they taking it down?” he questioned.
Strong Support for the City’s Future Vision
Other community members have shown strong support for the decision, convinced that removing the mural as part of city-wide improvements aligns with the best interests of everyone in the future. “It’s just absolutely outstanding what they’re trying to do,” commented Robert Bradberry.
BLM: Advocating for Racial Equality
Black Lives Matter (BLM), an international movement established in the U.S. in 2013, is focused on battling racism and anti-Black violence, notably police brutality. The name itself is a powerful protest against the unfair police killings of Black individuals, advocating for equal societal valuation and respect for Black lives, just as it is for white lives.
Holding influential protests in numerous U.S. cities and internationally, BLM activists have consistently made their presence felt and continue to shape public discourse. The main goal?Equal recognition of the importance of the lives of all races.
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