HOLLYWOOD HILLSーAfter three letters of the “All Black Lives Matter” mural that was painted on Hollywood Boulevard roads were washed off, Los Angeles City Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell halted the cleanup and suggest a permanent spot for the mural that was created on Saturday, June 13.

The mural between Highland and Orange Avenues was set to be removed by city crew after last weekend’s solidarity protests, commemorating all black and LGBTQ+ lives. On Sunday, June 14, at least 50,000 thousand individuals showed up at an organized march to support and call out for justice for those experiencing racial and discriminatory actions around the country. The mural was the starting point of the massive protest held on Sunday.

In light of pride month, the mural was designed for each letter to receive different colors representing the pride flag. Leaders of “All Black Lives Matter” are part of the LGBTQ community, and worked alongside with Trailer Park Group to paint the mural.

The Trailer Park Groupー“exists to harness the collective power of the strategic, creative and production expertise across Trailer Park, Art Machine and Miranda. Working together, we deliver campaigns that simultaneously generate stopping power and talk value, resulting in break-the-internet creative.” 

After the march, city officials said that the removal of the mural on Hollywood Boulevard would be removed and a permanent place would be reserved for it. Removal of three letters on Monday, June 15 was put to a halt by Councilman O’Farrell. O’Farrell said in a statement: 

“We had a once-in-a-generation moment this weekend in Hollywood as tens of thousands gathered for a peaceful demonstration on one of the most recognizable boulevards in America. We now have a chance to memorialize the movement in a meaningful way. I look forward to working with BLAC (Black LGBTQIA Action Committee) and other community members on this project.”

It is unsure where O’Farrell is planning on moving the mural or if it would be painted on a street. For now, the mural will stay on Hollywood momentarily until council members decide what to do. All Black Lives Matter LA group tweeted:

“Hollywood Boulevard looks incredible in ALL BLACK LIVES MATTER for today’s march for racial justice and gay rights✊🏾🏳️‍🌈 #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/FRedEQB8gq

— ✊🏾 ALL BLACK LIVES MATTER ✊🏾 (@flywithkamala) June 14, 2020″

The All Black Lives Matter group issued the following statement, as well regarding Pride month and the fight for justice for black LGBTQ+ individuals and communities:

“Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera bravely started a movement at the Stonewall Inn in 1969. They stood up to systemic racism and bigotry. We must acknowledge and recognize the many tireless years of service and action by Black LGBTQ+ people.” The All Black Lives Matter group continued: “The LGBTQ+ community must extend its support to unite against oppression, police brutality, racism, transphobia, and the many other disparities disproportionately impacting the Black community.”

The statement went on to add:

“We are here to amplify Black Queer voices and come together in solidarity. Endorsed by BLM-LA and the Black Advisory Board, the All Black Lives Matter solidarity march aims to bring the community together to peacefully exercise our First Amendment rights and heal together.”