A new mural is planned to honor Irina Zalutka, a Ukrainian refugee who was tragically murdered. However, it has been decided to **remove** the original mural after numerous complaints were lodged by the public regarding its placement outside a gay bar.
Providence’s Democratic Mayor Brett Smiley expressed his opposition to the mural on a Sunday, and a statement was released shortly after on Monday morning.
“This kind of political outrage has taken the humanity out of Irina’s story.”
The Mayor’s office stated, “Although the murder depicted in this mural was indeed a tragedy, the isolated intentions behind such murals create division and don’t reflect our community’s sentiments. I encourage our city to support local artists who unite us rather than divide us.”
Artist Ian Gaudreau began painting a mural outside a well-known LGBTQ+ venue last week with backing from a foundation associated with tech mogul Elon Musk. Gaudreau emphasized that there was no political motive behind the mural.
“My aim with this mural was simply to create understanding,” he clarified.
One local resident, Jennifer Cross, shared her support: “In Rhode Island, especially in Providence, we should strive for inclusivity. Let’s set politics aside and show respect to everyone. Yes, politics can be divisive, but I think we need to move past that. Irina deserves our respect.”
Not everyone felt that way. Some residents expressed differing views. One woman remarked, “Why aren’t there murals for those lost to the Black Lives Matter movement? I don’t see those.” It’s worth noting that “Black Lives Matter” was painted in bold colors on a mural downtown in 2021.
By Monday afternoon, it was announced that the mural project would be canceled.
The owner of Dark Lady Bar said, “PVD’s voice has been heard. We truly apologize for the events of this week. After reflection, we have decided to halt this project and will begin demolishing it shortly. Our commitment remains to foster community safety and unity, and we will continue to listen to our community.”
This decision was met with criticism from state Republican Minority Leader Sen. Jessica de la Cruz, who stated, “This isn’t an obscene mural; it’s a tribute to victims. The First Amendment protects such expressions, even if they offend some.”
She further commented, “Demanding removals isn’t leadership; it’s censorship. It’s contradictory to advocate ‘no kings’ when actions suggest otherwise.”
Earlier this year, Zalutka, 23, was walking home from her job at a pizza shop when she was brutally murdered by a suspect who was later caught on surveillance. The alleged assailant has a history of criminal behavior and mental health issues. In response to the tragedy, Musk donated $1 million to establish murals in her memory across the country.
“Political agendas have stripped away the humanity from Irina’s story,” Gaudreau noted. “And perhaps it’s important that we don’t forget that.”
