A Mural Spreading Kindness Was Vandalized, Then the Community United to Restore It

A mural in Phoenix, designed to spread kindness and represent cultural diversity, faced an act of vandalism this week.

Created by the Beautify the Valley Squad, the mural on the corner of 39th and Missouri Avenues brought together kids and families under the guidance of art teacher Candace Greene and artist Lalo Cota. Originating in the Sevilla West community, it has become a local symbol of positivity.

“In the morning and after school, this is the wall that the kids walk past every day,” Greene stated. “It’s a great reminder on their way to school to show kindness.”

The mural, which brought joy to many, was defaced, prompting sadness and confusion within the community. “It made me upset,” Greene lamented. “It really breaks my heart.”

Despite the setback, the community quickly united to restore the mural. Volunteers like Emiliano Carbajal joined early to help clean the defaced wall. “It’s rude, because it says kindness,” Carbajal expressed about the act of vandalism.

Within an hour, the mural was back to its original state, reflecting the resilience of the community. “I’m just glad that we don’t leave it there,” stated Katelynn Coleman, one of the original artists.

Looking ahead, the Beautify the Valley Squad has bigger plans. “Some of the squad members will be going on a trip next summer to France and Italy,” Greene revealed. The group aims to share their message of kindness overseas by painting a mural abroad.

Addressing the vandals, Greene emphasized, “Positivity and kindness will always overcome hate.” The community’s response to the vandalism stands as a testament to their enduring spirit.