“Black History Matters” Mural Painted Over in St. Petersburg, Pastors Arrested in Protest
ST.PETERSBURG, Fla. – A vibrant expression of community and heritage was erased Friday night as the “Black History Matters” mural in St. Petersburg was painted over by Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) crews. The action sparked immediate protest, leading to the arrest of two local pastors, Reverend Andy Oliver and Minister Benedict Atherton-Zeman, who were charged with obstruction.
The incident underscores a growing tension between artistic expression in public spaces and state directives regarding road safety, a point vigorously defended by Governor Ron DeSantis.
According to police reports, officers warned Reverend Oliver he was creating a dangerous situation for both himself and FDOT workers. Authorities state they repeatedly asked him to move from the roadway, ultimately resorting to physically removing him.
“I was told that I was in the way of traffic, and I let the police know they were in the way of justice,” Oliver stated, explaining his decision to remain on the mural in prayer.He described his presence as a matter of faith, aligning himself with a tradition of standing with the marginalized.
Oliver’s attorney, Michele Rayner, vehemently disputes the police account, asserting the area was adequately secured and posed no genuine risk. “I think that ‘obstruction’ is a catch-all charge used when law enforcement is unsure of what else to apply. They weren’t obstructing anything; they were peacefully protesting
