D.C. Completes Removal of Black Lives Matter Plaza

The iconic Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington D.C. has been nearly completely removed as part of a reconstruction effort directed by local leaders, following pressure from GOP lawmakers. The plaza, established in 2020 after the protests sparked by George Floyd's death, featured large yellow letters spelling 'Black Lives Matter' on 16th Street. Legislation introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde of Georgia threatened federal funding for D.C. unless the mural was removed, leading Mayor Muriel Bowser to announce the plaza's redesign and renaming to 'Liberty Plaza.' Although the mural played a significant role in civil rights activism, Bowser emphasized the need to focus on economic recovery amidst funding cuts. Local activists have expressed disappointment over the removal, asserting that while the mural may be erased, its historical significance endures. The reconstruction is expected to conclude shortly, with plans for new murals across the city as part of a broader initiative.