News Summary
Residents of St. Petersburg are vocalizing their discontent over the Florida Department of Transportation’s decision to remove several significant street murals, including the ‘Black History Matters’ mural and the LGBTQ+ Progressive Pride crosswalk. Activists organized protests and events to defend these vital artistic expressions, arguing that they represent marginalized communities. Despite safety claims from authorities, studies indicate street art can enhance traffic safety. The protests have garnered support and highlight the community’s dedication to preserving their cultural identity and values.
St. Petersburg residents are rallying against the impending removal of several prominent street murals, including the “Black History Matters” mural and the LGBTQ+ Progressive Pride crosswalk, following an edict from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). This announcement was made on August 22, triggering widespread protests from community members who see these artworks as vital representations of marginalized communities.
In response to the FDOT’s directive, local activists, including Lauren Sloniger and Jackie McKeon, took to the streets on the same day to advocate for the continued presence of these murals. Armed with signs promoting love and acceptance, they received positive feedback from passersby, who honked and cheered in support of the cause. The couple pledged to return to the intersection to continue their efforts.
Activists organized a chalk walk-in event at Bayboro Brewing on August 23 to draw attention to the issue. Additionally, a second protest, organized by the group #StandUpStPete, is set for August 24 on Central Avenue. Attendees are encouraged to bring chalk to cover sidewalks with messages of love and to wear Pride-colored shirts and accessories, symbolizing solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.
The mural removals were ordered by the FDOT, which cited safety concerns regarding non-compliant traffic control devices. An internal memo from the agency expressed that the removal was necessary to avoid distractions for drivers on the road. However, studies, including a 2022 Asphalt Art Safety Study, indicate that street art can actually enhance traffic safety and reduce accidents, calling into question the state’s motivation for the removals.
Activists argue that these murals serve as essential forms of expression for marginalized communities and should not be viewed as distractions. Tensions escalated when two local pastors, Andrew Oliver and Benedict Atherton-Zeman, were arrested for obstructing FDOT workers from painting over the “Black History Matters” mural. The pastors assert that their religious convictions compel them to resist actions they see as oppressive.
The removals come in the wake of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signing Senate Bill 1662, enacted to eliminate political messaging from roadways. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch acknowledged the city’s limited capacity to intervene in this state mandate, urging residents to comply with the law while also recognizing the significance of murals as reflections of community identity and values.
In anticipation of the removals, local stakeholders and activists are formulating plans to create murals on private property to sustain the spirit of inclusivity and community engagement. A notable initiative, the Love Thy Neighbor project, spearheaded by local artist Michelle Sasha, seeks to generate free murals that celebrate diversity throughout the community.
As part of their resistance to what they view as state overreach, activists are determined to uphold the artistic expressions and cultural identities depicted in St. Petersburg’s street art scene. Tamara Leigh from Blaque/OUT Magazine emphasizes the importance of proactively defending these artistic expressions and embodying joy through community initiatives.
In total, five murals are scheduled for removal, including the Progressive Pride mural and the Common Ground mural. This grassroots response highlights a growing desire among community members to preserve artistic expressions that embody their cultural identities and values. As protests and community-led initiatives continue to unfold, the future of these murals remains in question.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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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 Mayor Fights FDOT’s Mural Removal Order
FDOT Orders Removal of Street Murals in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg Will Not Challenge Florida’s Mural Ban
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News: Men Accused of Blocking FDOT Crews
- TBN Weekly: St. Petersburg Mural Removals
- Patch: Street Mural Removals Inspire Protests
- Wikipedia: Street Art
- Fox 13 News: Officials React to FDOT Decision
- Google Search: Florida Street Mural Removals
- Florida Politics: Pastors Arrested for Protest
- Google Scholar: Street Art Safety
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.
