Through a new mural at MS247, students exploring the themes of justice and equality wanted to inspire behaviors that challenge stereotypes and stigmas. The mural explores the difference between behaviors that encourage fear verses those that encourage hope and unity. Behaviors that encourage hope and unity are highlighted by vibrant colors and a new-found confidence and self-belief that are reflected in the subjects of the mural. This mural was informed by drawings created by students after learning about the history of inequality in America. The mural illustrates fears, unity, and hope through figures that reflect emotional states. The left panel depicts fear by using blindfolds and thunderclouds. On the center panel unity is represented with two large hands grasping each other. On the right panel, the breaking down of stereotypes is represented by the blindfold being unlocked. New found confidence and self-belief found by students is represented by colorful vines and emanating light from the figure on the right.
