The colorful 84-year-old gauntlet of WPA-era murals that line the main staircase into George Washington High School has come under attack. The murals highlight George Washington's life. His life included owning slaves and promoting the westward expansion that led to genocide for Native Americans.
Ironically, the artist, Victor Arnautoff, came under fire in the 1930's for deviating from the cherry-tree-storyline to more accurately depict Washington's life. Some students today describe the murals as hurtful and "shoved in their face." The San Francisco school board seems poised to have them removed. And if that's not feasible, painted over.
I think the answer is not fewer murals, but more. Between 5,000-8,000 blacks were instrumental to the American cause during the Revolutionary War. On the battlefield, on the seas, or in support behind the lines. Where's their mural? Tell more of the story, not less. Of course, some blacks joined the British effort to put down the rebellion. Each made a personal decision based on which side gave them a greater chance at freedom. See? Real history is complicated, and messy. Just like the people that make it.
Later mural, off main entrance.
Later mural, off main entrance.
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