News Summary
Two men were arrested in St. Petersburg during a protest against the erasure of a ‘Black History Matters’ mural. The incident echoes the larger debate over cultural expression following new legislation prohibiting political messages on state transportation facilities. Activists claim the removal represents a suppression of minority voices, sparking community outrage and subsequent plans for alternative forms of expression. As the local dialogue unfolds, officials emphasize safety concerns tied to politically themed street art.
St. Petersburg, Florida – Two local men were arrested during a protest against the painting over of a “Black History Matters” mural on 9th Avenue South, west of 22nd Street South. The individuals, identified as Andrew Oliver, aged 45, and Benedict Atherton-Zeman, aged 59, attempted to block crews from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) who were sent to cover the mural.
The protest took place within the context of Senate Bill 1662, a law recently signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, which prohibits political messages on state transportation facilities. Observers noted that both men sat in the street on top of the mural in an effort to obstruct the machinery being used to paint over it. Despite repeated warnings from St. Petersburg police to vacate the area, they were arrested for obstructing pedestrian traffic and obstruction.
Subsequently, both men were booked into the local jail and spent a portion of the night behind bars before being released on a $500 bail.
Background of the Mural
The “Black History Matters” mural is part of a broader effort within the city to celebrate cultural and social diversity. In the past, city officials had sent requests to the FDOT for exemptions allowing several murals, including this one and a Pride mural, to remain. However, these requests were denied in light of the new legislation. Mayor Ken Welch underscored the importance of such street murals in representing the identity and values of the community.
Community Response
The protest against the mural’s removal drew considerable attention from local residents and activists who conveyed a sense of urgency regarding what they see as an infringement on cultural expression. Attendees articulated that the actions taken by the DeSantis administration could be viewed as part of a larger “war on culture and inclusion,” aimed at suppressing minority voices in public spaces.
In response to the FDOT’s actions, local activists have announced plans for chalk art on Central Avenue as a creative means of expressing their dissent towards the removal of the mural. Furthermore, city officials are actively working to create avenues for community engagement that uphold the values represented by such art, with events like “Stand Up St. Pete” aimed at reinforcing community ethos.
Official Statements and Safety Concerns
While supporters of the mural argue for its importance to the community, FDOT officials maintain that “non-standard surface markings” on roadways could pose safety issues for both drivers and pedestrians. Governor DeSantis has reiterated the directive to eliminate politically themed street murals, asserting that roadways should remain free of such political expressions to ensure public safety and clarity in transportation policies.
The situation in St. Petersburg continues to unfold as residents and officials navigate the ramifications of the new law. The ongoing discourse between community sentiment and legislative action reflects broader national conversations about cultural representation and the role of public art in society.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
St. Petersburg Residents Protest Removal of Street Murals
St. Petersburg, Florida: A Cultural Transformation
Clergy Arrested in St. Petersburg for Mural Protest
Protests Erupt as FDOT Moves to Paint Over Murals in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg Men Arrested While Blocking Mural Removal
Protests Erupt in St. Petersburg Over Mural Removal
Disorderly Conduct Incident Near St. Petersburg School
FDOT Orders Removal of Street Art Murals in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg Will Not Challenge Florida’s Mural Ban
FDOT Orders Removal of Pride and Black History Murals
Additional Resources
- Black Enterprise
- FOX 13 News
- WTSP News
- Florida Politics
- Patch
- Wikipedia: Street Art
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Art
- Google Search: Cultural Representation
- Google Scholar: Public Art and Cultural Expression
- Google News: St Petersburg Mural Protests
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas 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 Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
