ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Metropolis leaders in St. Petersburg stated they’re decided to reclaim messages that had been paved over by the state. The Black Historical past Issues and Delight road murals had been erased below orders from Governor Ron DeSantis, in a statewide effort to take away “ideology” from public roadways.
Proposal for 2 new St. Pete flag variations
Councilwoman Gina Driscoll launched two variations of town’s official flag “Concord,” a nod to the Delight flag, and “Historical past,” symbolizing Black historical past. Impressed by an identical transfer in Salt Lake Metropolis, the flags may very well be flown in any respect metropolis buildings throughout designated months.
“Folks have been so hungry for one thing and this solutions that. I do know it doesn’t repair all the pieces,” stated Driscoll. “I really need these to be a part of our cities.”
What they’re saying:
A number of residents urged council to undertake the flags, arguing that seen, city-sanctioned symbols matter, particularly after the literal erasing of road artwork.
“This decision reminds us that whereas paint may be stripped away, our spirit can not. The concord flag and the historical past flag are greater than designs, they symbolize who we’re,” stated Keindra Darling of St. Pete.
RELATED: Group members use chalk artwork to protest FDOT eradicating St. Pete road murals
Not everybody thinks a brand new flag is required. Some audio system questioned whether or not extra flags are obligatory or inclusive.
“The phrases ‘concord’ and ‘historical past’ should not inclusive really of all people, and, actually, I like the flag for St. Petersburg with the seal most not too long ago adopted,” stated Holly Noah.
St. Pete leaders cut up on technique
What they’re saying:
A number of council members voiced sturdy help for actions that make marginalized communities really feel seen.
“I’m able to help nearly something anybody in metropolis authorities places in entrance of me that makes marginalized communities really feel extra included on this metropolis,” stated Councilman Richie Floyd. “There are horrific issues taking place in our state and our nation, and I’m able to push again any method I can.”
READ: Pastors arrested for blocking ‘Black Historical past Issues’ road mural from FDOT crews in St. Pete
It was a sentiment felt throughout the dais, however Driscoll’s movement to undertake the flags, didn’t get a second.
The opposite facet:
Others raised issues: Would new flag variations invite state challenges? Might it set off tighter restrictions on what town is allowed to fly?
At present, St. Petersburg flies the Delight flag in June and the Dr. Carter G. Woodson flag in February. Some questioned whether or not that’s sufficient.
Why you must care:
St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch pledged to switch the road murals in a method that’s much more impactful than earlier than. A public survey has been performed and discussions with the Arts Committee are ongoing to find out what that may seem like.
A majority of the council signaled they wished to maintain trying on the choices to ship the strongest message attainable to the state and questioned whether or not the flags, alone, had been sufficient.
MORE: FDOT orders Daytona Speedway checkered crosswalk painted over in security crackdown
“I’ll put it this manner: I wanna throw a haymaker. I don’t wish to throw a jab,” stated Copley Gerdes.
What’s subsequent:
Citywide deliberations proceed. The proposed flag variations and different concepts for changing the murals can be taken up at a citywide assembly in two weeks.
The Supply: The data on this story was gathered by FOX 13’s Genevieve Curtis.
