Salt Lake City demolished police violence murals in Fleet neighborhoods (video)

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Salt Lake City was once a once sacred space, with vibrant murals honoring victims of police violence – which have been demolished, leaving many in the community feeling neglected and heartbroken. The Videothe area known as Fleet Block became a local landmark in the years after George Floyd's death. The walls of an abandoned city owned buildings are painted with 26 murals with shades of red and magenta. They portray faces like Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and those killed in situations with police. The mural turns the clearing into a gathering place for protests, commemoration and quiet reflection moments. Although the city has long shared plans for reconstruction with residents, the reality of losing such meaningful space has taken a huge blow, especially for families of loved ones portrayed on the wall. Since 2020, it has evolved into a symbol of social justice in a city where black residents make up a small part of the population. The anonymous artist portrayed the mural as a tribute to those who had lost and called on police accountability. They assured that the reconstruction will include three acres of open space and commissioned artworks to continue to respect victims of injustice. However, many in the community believe that FOMILIES gathered on the Fleet Block is not just about art, it’s not just about memorials, community and love. For them, this space makes grief sound and serves as a public demand for change. As the murals disappear, they fear that the stories they tell may disappear, too. Activists and families called on the city to be loyal to its commitment to keeping the legacy alive in the new development. But for those who come to mourn and reflect, demolition feels like a painful erasure.

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