Xavier University mural explores complexities of racial injustice

November 1, 2024

By: Adriana Williams, Contributor

Xavier University’s campus has become a canvas for social justice with a new mural that delves into the complexities of historical and contemporary racial injustice. Created by Kaitlyn Murray, a Gilead Justice and Equity Scholar, the mural shares a compelling message, intertwining past and present to inspire reflection and change. It is located on Building D in the Art Village.

“My involvement in social justice initiatives has helped me understand the importance of addressing systemic oppression and celebrating resilience. This mural draws from the rich history of the Tignon laws, the legacies of slavery, and modern-day cases of hair discrimination, creating a visual narrative that advocates for justice and highlights the ongoing fight for equity,” Murray said.

The mural takes inspiration from various historical and modern sources, including the Tignon laws, the forced shaving of enslaved people, and the recent EEOC v. Management Catastrophe Solutions case. By combining these elements, Murray emphasizes the persistent nature of oppression and the continuous fight for equity. The Tignon laws, which required enslaved women to wear headscarves, represent both oppression and resistance. By compelling enslaved women to cover their hair, slaveholders aimed to diminish their identity and individuality. Nevertheless, the Tignon became a symbol of cultural identity and a means of quiet protest.

“By connecting these historical and contemporary issues, I aim to convey a powerful message of empowerment and resilience, inspiring viewers to recognize the importance of understanding our past to advocate for a more equitable future,” Murray said.

The visual language of the mural is strong and suggestive, with bright colors and bold images creating a striking effect. The Tignon, a key symbol in the mural, is shown in various forms, representing both historical oppression and modern empowerment. The use of African prints introduces an additional layer of cultural depth and richness.

“The main color palette includes blue, red, and yellow: blue represents sadness and melancholy, reflecting the deep sorrow associated with the history of slavery; red symbolizes strength and courage, highlighting the resilience and defiance of Black women under the Tignon laws; and yellow embodies hope, optimism, and empowerment, particularly in relation to the themes highlighted in the EEOC case, signifying the ongoing fight for equality and the potential for positive change in society,” Murray said.

Murray aims to establish a space for conversation and introspection. Through the mural, viewers are encouraged to address issues surrounding race, gender, and power. The mural serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equality, motivating viewers to take action and advocate for change.

This mural is more than just a work of art; it is a catalyst for social transformation. It conveys a message of hope, resilience, and the quest for justice to individuals from all walks of life. By using art as her medium, Murray has created an important tool for raising awareness, igniting discussions, and engaging communities.

“Ultimately, I aim for this mural to empower individuals to take action toward social change, reinforcing the commitment to justice and equity that Xavier stands for. This mural is just the first installment of my initiative, ‘Empower Her: Artivism for Change.’ I plan to create more murals that continue to elevate voices and stories from our community, fostering an ongoing dialogue about justice and empowerment, and demonstrating that art is a medium that can be used for social change and advocacy,” Murray said.

“I want to extend a special thanks to Dr. Berger and Ms. Dominique from the Center for Justice, Equity, and the Human Spirit, who were instrumental in coordinating experiences with local youth to educate them about social activism, inviting them to work on the mural, and organizing this initiative. Additionally, Marzonet Palmer and Starr Smith were essential student leads who helped paint the mural. A shoutout to African American history professor Tarik Richardson for his presence during my project,” Murray said.