MARBLEHEAD — A social media post criticizing a pride-flag mural painted on the sidewalk in front of the Marblehead Information Booth prompted a heated online debate, resulting in more than 600 comments, in a popular town Facebook group this week.
On Tuesday, in the group titled Anything Marblehead 01945, Pam Palmer posted two pictures of the mural with the caption “Just wondering – How long will this eyesore be on the street for? Just for the month of June?” In a matter of hours, the post ignited a storm of replies.
Local artist Ties Jan de Blij painted the mural this week to celebrate June Pride Month. De Blij worked in tandem with the Cultural Council to bring the permanent mural to life, as he and Council Chair Anthony Silva got the Select Board’s approval for the project June 14.
In response to the criticism, de Blij explained his motivation behind the mural.
“I just wanted to show my respect for diversity,” de Blij said. “I believe as an artist, it’s super important to have an inclusive community where people appreciate and accept their differences. Through learning from each other about other perspectives, you create a richer society.”
The comment section on Palmer’s post is full of opinions. Some take issue with the mural’s permanent status. Others question whether or not it could be a “safety hazard” in rainy or snowy weather. However, several were straightforward in their disdain for the mural’s message in support of the LGBTQ+ community.
“Stop catering to less than 1% of our population. NO ONE CARES! These flags cause division and fighting in ALL communities! Enough!” Facebook user Robert Cooper wrote in a comment.
Other comments defended the mural and expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community.
“This literally only makes Marblehead a more welcoming place,” Facebook user Mark Palladino wrote. “That’s an issue to you? Wow.”
Recently-appointed Select Board Chair Erin Noonan said no official complaints regarding the mural have yet to come before the board. She also reiterated her support for the project and the LGBTQ+ community.
“The Cultural Council brought it forward to signal to visitors of the town and people in our town — in a climate of national hateful bigoted rhetoric — that this is a supportive community and a safe place,” Noonan said.
The mural debate arrives on the heels of a separate controversy related to Pride month at Little Grace Church that occurred last weekend. More than 150 people gathered at the church Sunday to protest members’ decision to remove pride flags from outside Pleasant Street Preschool, which rents space in the church.
Mike Richmond, who owns and operates the preschool with his partner Ryan Thompson, said they made the decision to close the school’s doors Friday and that it will likely remain closed until they are able to secure a different location.
According to de Blij, creating discussion is a natural function of art. He compared the mural to another one of his upcoming projects surrounding environmental advocacy, in that they should both be viewed as ways to raise awareness of important issues, rather than direct attacks on those who might disagree.
“A lot of opinions are formed by people’s experiences and their beliefs,” de Blij said. “In a democracy and a free society, it sometimes may be difficult not to get… emotional. But I think it is important that you can listen to people’s opinions and views in a respectful way.”
Item reporters Ryan Vermette and Ben Pierce contributed to this report.
