Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has renamed the street in front of the White House Black Lives Matter Plaza. In addition, the Mayor Bowser had artists of the local Murals DC project paint “Black Lives Matter” across the street.
“The section of 16th [Street] in front of the White House is now officially Black Lives Matter Plaza,” she tweeted.
Last Monday, a number of protesters met up on what is now called Black Lives Matter Plaza to express their discontent with city officials, systematic oppression and President Donald Trump. As the sun began to set, authorities tear gassed and pepper sprayed a number of peaceful demonstrators in order to make way for Trump. Shortly thereafter, Trump participated in a photo opp in front of St. John’s Episcopal Church.
“It is very moving, very moving, very impressive. I think what the people in DC and around the nation are sending a mighty, powerful and strong message to the world that WE WILL GET THERE.” Congressman John Lewis on #BlackLivesMatter Plaza this morning pic.twitter.com/kDNiOYzXta
— Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) June 7, 2020
In the days following the act of force, officials of the church have condemned Trump’s actions. Mayor Bowser has also called for the National Guard to be removed from the city.
“There’s a lot of anger. There’s a lot of distrust of police in the government. There are people who are craving to be heard and to be seen and to have their humanity recognized,” Bowser said.
“And we had the opportunity to send that message loud and clear on a very important street in our city. That message is to the American people that black lives matter, black humanity matters, and we as a city raise that up,” Bowser added.
As nationwide demonstrations extend for a second week, Black Lives Matter Plaza will continue to be a place that will garner much attention across the world.
