News Summary
The Black Lives Matter mural in Spartanburg, painted in June 2020, is beginning to fade, and the city has no plans to repaint it. This mural, created by 16 local artists during significant social justice protests, has become a symbol of racial justice and community unity. As the mural deteriorates amid upcoming construction nearby, discussions arise about its legacy and the importance of continued public art initiatives to promote themes of equality and inclusion.
Spartanburg – The Black Lives Matter mural painted in June 2020 on West Broad Street in Spartanburg is starting to fade, and the city has confirmed that there are no plans to repaint it. The mural was created by a coalition of 16 artists from Spartanburg and the surrounding Carolinas during a period marked by significant social justice protests following the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020.
As time has passed, the mural’s exposure to the elements and heavy traffic has caused it to deteriorate. This fading coincides with upcoming construction efforts for a new joint city and county government complex located nearby. The original site of the mural was positioned in front of the former City Hall and police headquarters, symbolizing a poignant statement during a movement advocating for racial justice and equality.
City spokesman Christopher George has stated that the city currently has no intention of restoring or repainting the mural. This decision has raised discussions among community members and artists about the significance of the message behind the mural, which remains relevant despite its physical condition. The artists involved feel that the gathering and shared expression of unity at the time of the mural’s creation held greater importance than its permanence or durability.
Frankie Zombie, one of the artists who organized the mural, emphasized that its fading does not negate the powerful message it represents. John Hairston, another contributing artist, compared the temporary nature of the mural to that of public art in general, which is often subject to wear and weathering over time. Both Zombie and Hairston highlight that the original mural was a grassroots initiative funded through community contributions and support from the city.
Community leaders and artists have expressed interest in the continuation of public art projects in Spartanburg. They believe these projects can serve to promote themes of social justice and inclusion, resonating with the ongoing spirit of the Black Lives Matter movement. City Councilor Erica Brown has reaffirmed the city’s commitment to promoting equality and inclusion, reflecting the enduring significance of the mural’s message within the community.
The Black Lives Matter mural was completed on June 20, 2020, with support from numerous volunteers who painted alongside the artists. This collaborative effort united residents during a crucial time for social advocacy, fostering a sense of community solidarity. Although the mural shows signs of wear, the message it conveys is still echoed in the sentiments of residents and community leaders alike.
As the mural fades into history, its founders and the local community remain hopeful for future artistic endeavors that will continue to champion equality and provide a platform for dialogue around social justice. The absence of plans to maintain the mural reflects the broader challenges of preserving public art, but the discussions surrounding its legacy foster an environment where the conversation about racial justice and community engagement can continue to thrive.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg Black Lives Matter Mural Future
- GoUpstate: Photojournalist Alex Hicks Reflects on Decades-Long Career
- Greenville Online: Black History Month – Upstate Historical Markers to Visit
- Wikipedia: Black Lives Matter
- New York Times: Opinion on George Floyd Mural
- Encyclopedia Britannica: George Floyd
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
