Washington Removes Iconic 'Black Lives Matter' Street Mural Near White House

The removal follows Republican pressure and threats to withhold funding, as Mayor Bowser cites economic priorities for the decision.

The 200-meter-long 'Black Lives Matter' mural, created in June 2020 near the White House, was removed on March 10, 2025, under the direction of Washington D.C.'s Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser.
The mural was originally painted to honor the movement against police brutality and racial injustice following the death of George Floyd in 2020.
Mayor Bowser stated the decision was influenced by economic concerns and the need to focus on the city's recovery, as well as pressure from Republican lawmakers threatening to cut federal funding.
Republicans, including President Donald Trump, reportedly opposed the mural, with Trump previously labeling Black Lives Matter demonstrators as 'terrorists' and 'gangsters.'
The removal is part of broader tensions between the city and the federal government, with Washington's limited self-governance and ongoing challenges under Trump's administration, including budget cuts and demands to address homelessness.