There’s a massive graffiti project going on in New York City right now, but it’s not exactly the work of unsanctioned hoodlums. Fifth Avenue, between 56th and 57th streets, is closed today as the city paints a massive Black Live Matter mural on the pavement. Even more notable than the giant yellow letters themselves is that it’s located directly in front of Trump Tower.
Photo: NYC Mayor's Office/Twitter
NYC Is Painting a Giant Black Lives Matter Mural in Front of Trump Tower
Mayor Bill de Blasio, who is participating in the project, said he wants to communicate a clear message to President Trump that Black lives do matter and make sure that the message is in a location impossible for the president to ignore.
From Fifth Avenue to Fulton Street to Richmond Terrace, NYC has a message for the world: #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/wtkzCHpURm
— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) July 9, 2020
On Facebook, de Blasio said, “Black people built Fifth Avenue and so much of this nation. We are honoring them.”
Trump, of course, lashed out on Twitter, claiming that the Black Lives Matter sign is “denigrating this luxury Avenue” and “will further antagonize New York’s Finest, who LOVE New York.”
Hundreds of gallons of paint are being used for the mural, which could take a few days to complete. Until it’s finished, the area in front of Trump Tower will likely remain closed. 