SARASOTA – Downtown Sarasota is looking a little brighter this week.
The five corner intersection of Cocoanut Avenue and Second Street is getting a colorful touch-up just in time for Pride Month.
“It’s on the floor, it’s not going anywhere, and we’re going to make sure of that,” said Vice President of Project Pride SRQ, Christopher Covelli.
With the help of signatures on a petition and approval from the City of Sarasota, Project Pride SRQ got the green light to keep the five corner intersection of Cocoanut Ave and Second Street filled with pride
“Ground murals definitely need upkeep especially when cars are driving on them so were just back at it a year after we originally painted giving it a fresh coat,” said Mural Artist, Joey Salamon.
Detroit based artist, Joey Salamon, who has created Rainbow Street murals across the country says the 2,500 square foot mural in downtown Sarasota stands for inclusivity.
“We have not only the rainbow colors, but color from the trans flags and black and brown representing people of color,” said Salamon.
While the LGBTQ+ community in Florida has faced several roadblocks this past year, Vice President of Project Pride SRQ Christopher Covelli says the fight will never stop.
“We are the people that are pushing back like the people did at stonewall, like the people did prior to that so were the next generation that are setting the stage for the generations before us that fought,” said Covelli.
Volunteers feel the street mural makes Sarasota welcoming to all.
“I think especially when the governor is making a large statement, there needs to be a statement in response,” said Bradenton resident, Chris Bessette.
“They need to see that there’s people in the community that still support them, and were out here making sure they feel loved and heard,” said Bradenton resident, Danielle Cameron.
“They’re really good at creating a safe space for the community, so having something like this is awesome to be able to walk around on and see what our city wants to do for us,” said Sarasota resident, Joanna Morris.
If you are interested in helping re-touch the street mural, Project Pride SRQ is looking for volunteers until the end of this week.
To sign up, you can visit Project Pride SRQ’s website here.
