A significant mural depicting Vice President Kamala Harris, alongside Barack Obama and Martin Luther King, Jr., will be temporarily concealed on election day at a Bloomfield polling location. This decision aims to prevent any potential violation of state election laws regarding political advertising at polling sites.
Key Takeaways
- The mural has been in place since 2021 and celebrates Black excellence.
- Town officials emphasize the importance of a fair voting environment.
- The mural will be covered as a precaution, despite no complaints filed.
Background of the Mural
The mural, located on the side of the Alvin B. Wood Human Services Center, was unveiled on Juneteenth 2021. It was created through a collaboration between the Town of Bloomfield and RiseUp Group Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to public art. The artwork also features local figures such as actress Anika Noni Rose and NFL player Dwight Freeney, both celebrated as hometown heroes.
Legal Considerations
The decision to cover the mural stems from concerns about state election laws that prohibit campaigning or advertising within 75 feet of polling locations. Although the mural was not intended as a political statement, its visibility could be interpreted as a violation, especially with the upcoming 2024 presidential race.
Bloomfield officials consulted the Secretary of State’s Office for guidance, but no formal complaints had been lodged, leaving the legality of the mural ambiguous. Joshua Foley, an attorney with the State Elections and Enforcement Commission, noted that the commission would only address such issues if a complaint were filed.
Community Response
Bloomfield Town Manager Alvin D. Schwapp, Jr. expressed pride in honoring Black achievements but emphasized the need for a neutral voting environment. He stated, "Fair elections are the cornerstone of democracy, and a secure, transparent polling environment is essential for maintaining trust in the process."
Despite the mural’s temporary concealment, it is unlikely to impact the voting outcome in Bloomfield, a district that has consistently favored Democratic candidates, with a voting margin of 85 to 15 since 2020.
Upcoming Elections
Early voting in Connecticut begins on October 21, allowing residents two weeks to cast their ballots before election day. This election will serve as a significant test for the state’s new early voting system, which has raised concerns among municipalities regarding the costs associated with staffing polling locations.
Conclusion
While the mural will be covered for the election, it remains a symbol of local pride and a celebration of Black excellence. Mayor Suzette DeBeatham-Brown hopes that the mural inspires residents to pursue their dreams, stating, "Every time you drive past this mural, I hope and pray that you remember that."
The mural, which cost approximately $15,000, was funded through a combination of town resources and crowdfunding efforts by RiseUP. The decision to cover it reflects a commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased voting process for all residents.
Sources
- Kamala cover-up: Bloomfield to hide Kamala Harris mural at voting site, Connecticut Inside Investigator.
