The Journey of the Yard Sign: A Symbol of Unity and Justice
In the wake of the tragic murder of Philando Castile in 2016, a movement unfolded at the Governor's Mansion in St. Paul. People gathered day after day to rally and protest, united in their call for justice. Amidst this sea of voices and emotions, Ara noticed the children, overwhelmed and restless, participating in these long stretches of activism.
With a background in early childhood education, she felt a calling to bring something that could offer solace and engagement—buckets of chalk. The next time Ara was at the governor’s mansion she distributed chalk freely to anyone interested. Both adults and children took to the sidewalks, writing statements and drawing images that expressed their hopes and dreams.
Among these creations was a powerful image drawn by the artist themselves. It featured the words JUSTICE, LOVE, HUMANITY, COMPASSION, UNITE. This simple yet profound message resonated deeply with those who saw it.
From Chalk to Canvas: The Birth of an Art Piece
In the weeks following the protests, someone reached out to the Ara, moved by the chalk drawing, with a request to recreate it as an original art piece for their teenage daughter. Although the exact sequence of events that followed remains a bit hazy, the art piece was soon requested to be duplicated and transformed into a yard sign.
This sign, carrying its potent message, spread like wildfire across the Twin Cities and eventually throughout the nation. It blazed its way across yards, rallies, protests, classrooms, porches, homes, and storefronts. Its simplicity and depth captured the hearts of many, making it the most requested item of the artist.
A Legacy of Hope and Change
The yard sign became more than just a piece of art; it became a symbol of activism and change. It raised funds for communities and causes, and was generously donated to numerous nonprofits and schools. Though the artist no longer produces or sells the piece, a free download is available in their shop, allowing anyone to reproduce it in any form they wish.
This art piece, born from a moment of empathy and creativity during a time of tragedy and tension, continues to inspire and call for a better world. Its message of justice, love, humanity, compassion, and unity remains as powerful and intentional as ever, sparking vision, determination and hope for all who come across it.
