Dubuque Times

A mural 28-feet high and 105-feet wide has been painted in Dubuque on Main Street by local artists with the objective of promoting racial harmony and understanding.

The artwork conceived by Shelby Fry, a Dubuque graphic designer, depicts 10 raised fists of different colors with the word “solidarity” spelled out on the wrists of the painted hands.

Fry said, according to a press release from the City of Dubuque, the mural is intended to show that Dubuque stands for solidarity and strength amongst all citizens.

“As the protests continue, the Black Lives Matter movement is more important than ever,” Fry said. “It was also important to include support for people with disabilities, brain health issues, the LGBTQ community and representation for women and trans rights.”

Fry said that getting people of all persuasions involved especially those who feel excluded, is a key.

“We need to come together in times of uncertainty and show that each life is important and if we work together, we can make something beautiful,” Fry said.

The mural is located at 450 Main St. in the city’s Five Flags Civic Center.

Dubuque Mayor Roy Buol said the mural sends an important message that understanding and empathy for others should always be a priority.

“This is an important and significant artistic expression, giving birth to a unified statement by the City of Dubuque and it provides the canvas for a timely and timeless message,” Buol said. “This image represents all people in Dubuque and clarifies our goal to be an inclusive and equitable community. I am sincerely grateful to all involved in making this happen.”

Fry and Voices Productions, an arts advocacy organization, oversaw the project. They invited community members with artistic talents, especially those in the Black and brown communities, to participate in doing the painting in revolving shifts. The mural was to be completed by July 4.