Washington D.C. to Remove “Black Lives Matter” Street Painting Near White House
By ASHRAF KHALIL, Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a surprising turn of events, Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced plans to remove the large painting of the words “Black Lives Matter” on a street one block from the White House. This decision comes as Bowser faces threats of encroachment from President Donald Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress.
Bowser took to the social platform X on Tuesday to announce the change, stating, “The mural inspired millions of people and helped our city through a painful period, but now we can’t afford to be distracted by meaningless congressional interference. The devastating impacts of the federal job cuts must be our number one concern.”
Back in June 2020, Bowser, a Democrat, ordered the painting and renamed the intersection Black Lives Matter Plaza as a public act of defiance following protests over police brutality in the aftermath of George Floyd’s killing by a Minneapolis police officer.
Her decision to remove the painting marks a significant shift in Bowser’s approach towards Trump and congressional Republicans. During Trump’s first term, the president had criticized Bowser for losing control of the city and even threatened to take over the Metropolitan Police Department. However, Bowser has since worked to avoid conflict and downplay points of contention with the current administration.
Trump’s recent comments about a federal “takeover” of Washington have added to the tensions. Bowser has refrained from commenting on reports of an executive order targeting the city, instead focusing on the threats posed by some members of Congress.
Republicans in Congress, who hold the majority, have continuously threatened to intervene in city affairs. The proposed BOWSER Act seeks to revoke the Home Rule Act of 1973, which grants Washington D.C. limited autonomy. These actions have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the city’s autonomy.
Despite her previous support for Black Lives Matter activists, Bowser’s decision to remove the street painting has drawn criticism from the community. Activists have accused her of “performative wokeness” and questioned her commitment to the movement.
As Washington D.C. grapples with budget shortfalls due to federal job cuts, the political landscape remains tense. Bowser’s actions reflect a delicate balance of navigating federal pressures while addressing local concerns.
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