The city started work on the new streetscape and a permanent mural, which is the centerpiece of Black Lives Matter Plaza, in July.
D.C.’s Black Lives Matter Mural Is Gone. The City Plans On Bringing It Back — With New Traffic Lanes
The proposal for a new Black Lives Matter Plaza includes a single lane of traffic on either side of the street and a 14-foot wide pedestrian walkway in the middle.
Undocumented family members said they’re afraid they’ll be deported away from loved ones. “We want to stay together,” one mother said.
A few dozen people gathered at the symbolic space on 16th Street to learn that former police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all three counts in the murder of George Floyd.
The center of the plaza will remain designated for pedestrians and protected from cars.
Half a year of arrests and injuries at protests have strengthened organizers’ commitment to defunding the police — and left them exhausted.
It’s the latest example of conservative-leaning groups claiming that the District is playing favorites with messages in the public square.
According to one business owner, “If there is going to be unrest, the nucleus of that will be right here.”
From handing out water, snacks, and PPE at polling places, to a watch party at Black Lives Matter Plaza.
“Amy Barrett got voted in,” one activist said in a video posted on social media. “No more abortion for you, girl.”
