Mayor Siddiqui’s Statement on Vandalism of Rep. John Lewis Mural at Urban Hearth

Yesterday, I was made aware that Urban Hearth on Massachusetts Avenue was vandalized. This vandalism goes deeper than just property damage. I believe it was rooted in hate. We condemn, in the strongest language possible, the racist vandalism of the mural painted at Urban Hearth.  After the great Representative John Lewis passed away earlier this year, Urban Hearth worked with local Haitian artist, Rocky Cotard to create a beautiful mural to represent what John Lewis stood for and celebrate the good trouble he got into. It was a way to honor his life and inspire others along the way. This mural contains inspiring depictions of Rep. Lewis throughout his long and storied life, as well as one of his famous quotes, "Never, ever be afraid to make good trouble." This mural was commissioned by Urban Hearth owner Erin Miller intentionally this summer, to bring focus to the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement and to support and uplift local artists of color.

The deliberate act of tagging and vandalizing this mural delivers a strong message. That hate, however ugly, is a reality that exists even in Cambridge. Racism exists in Cambridge. I want everyone to know that this will not be tolerated in Cambridge, by the City Council or our residents.

We will all continue to make good trouble here in Cambridge, undaunted by this hateful act, and continue to move forward towards Rep. Lewis’ goal of seeking racial justice for all members of our community.

Though there are reports of several buildings vandalized on the 2200-2300 block of Massachusetts Avenue, this is the only one with such a clear message of hate. If you have any information about this vandalism, please call the Cambridge Police at 617-349-3300. Those who wish to provide information anonymously may dial the Cambridge Police Anonymous Crime Tip Hotline at 617-349-3359 and leave a message.  Anonymous tips may also be sent via the Cambridge Police MyPD mobile app or via text message to 847411. Begin your text with TIP650 and then type your message. To send anonymous tips via email, visit www.CambridgePolice.org/Tips.