D.C. Begins Removal Of Black Lives Matter Mural

Washington, D.C., has started removing the Black Lives Matter mural that was painted in 2020 near the White House during nationwide protests over George Floyd’s death. The move comes after Republican lawmakers threatened to revoke millions in federal funding if the mural remained.

This decision aligns with broader national efforts to scale back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, following President Donald Trump's executive orders that eliminated federal DEI initiatives and legally recognized only two genders.

The Mural’s History

The 50-foot-wide, yellow-lettered mural was created in June 2020 as a statement against racial injustice. It quickly became a symbol of the Black Lives Matter movement and was later designated as a permanent part of Black Lives Matter Plaza.

However, in 2025, Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-Ga.) introduced a bill to have the mural removed and rename the area Liberty Plaza. Mayor Muriel Bowser later announced that the plaza would be redesigned as part of the city's America 250 mural project, which will feature new artwork across D.C. 

The removal reflects a broader shift in corporate and governmental stances on DEI, with major companies pausing diversity efforts in response to Trump's policies, though organizations like the NFL have chosen to continue their DEI initiatives despite federal opposition.

Public Reactions

Many residents expressed sadness over the mural’s removal. Some viewed it as an attempt to erase history, while others saw it as a necessary transition. Karen Long, a former D.C. resident, said the removal felt “somber” but believed the movement would continue beyond the mural.

D.C. resident Adrianne Lind echoed similar thoughts: 

There’s no such thing as erasure. The whole world saw it.

Members of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity gathered at the plaza the day before the removal, singing "Lift Every Voice and Sing" to honor the mural’s significance.

What’s Next?

The removal process, expected to take six to eight weeks and cost $610,000, involves tearing up pavement and repaving the street. Once completed, the plaza will return to a standard four-lane street.

Mayor Bowser has stated that the new mural project will provide fresh opportunities for artists and students to contribute to the city's history. However, many still see the removal of the Black Lives Matter mural as a political decision rather than an artistic evolution.

Also Read:

• From Politics To Crypto: Trump's $TRUMP Coin Makes Waves
• President Donald Trump’s Return to The White House Breathes New Life In TikTok
• Donald Trump’s Inauguration And Billionaire Attendances With New Controversies