The removal of Black Lives Matter (BLM) Plaza in Washington, D.C., began on Monday, March 10, 2025. The plaza, located along 16th Street NW near the White House, was originally established in June 2020 as a symbol of racial justice, featuring a massive yellow “Black Lives Matter” mural.
The decision to dismantle the site follows legislative pressure, including a bill introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), which proposed cutting federal transportation funds for D.C. unless the plaza was renamed “Liberty Plaza” and the mural removed. In response, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced a redesign of the area as part of the city’s America 250 mural project, inviting local artists and students to contribute new artworks.
The removal process, which involves clearing asphalt and debris, is expected to take six to eight weeks. While some see the change as a natural evolution of public art, others view it as a politically motivated move to erase a powerful statement against police brutality. Despite the controversy, city officials emphasize that the space will continue to serve as a site for artistic and historical expression.
