Credit: Screenshot / Ananda Sunshine Tomas
Social justice activists are calling on the community to help them restore the East Side’s “Say Their Names” mural, which organizers say was vandalized as thousands attended last week’s Martin Luther King Jr. March.
The mural, which honors San Antonio victims of police brutality and their families, was defaced by an unknown person or group of people.
Police accountability group Act4SA, which led the charge on commissioning the mural, is now leading the charge for its restoration. The organization’s community paint day will take place noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31 at the Greater Faith Institutional Church, 3514 Martin Luther King Drive.
Volunteers will repaint damaged sections of the mural and apply anti-graffiti coating in hopes of preventing further vandalization.
“This is a day to connect, organize and heal together,” organizers said in event details shared with the Current. Volunteers are encouraged to RSVP to attend.
This is the first of several planned community paint days, according to group members. Saturday’s gathering also serves as “an opportunity to find out how else you can plug into the movement for police accountability, ending mass incarceration, reimagining public safety, and standing up against racial injustice,” according to its event listing.
The mural is the creation of artist David Blancas, who told the Current he undertook the project to raise awareness for San Antonio victims of police violence, including Melissa Perez, who was shot to death during a mental health episode.
Those who can’t stay to paint can also drop off supplies to aid in the cause, organizers add. The group also is accepting food and drinks for artists and volunteers, paint rollers and brushes of all sizes, hand warmers, water, paper cups, plates and paper towels, trash bags and other supplies. Step stools and ladders are also appreciated.
Act4SA is also seeking monetary donations through its website to fund the ongoing restoration.
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