A vibrant new mural is set to take shape in our community with over 30 participating artist contributors. “Why We March” is a collaborative mural project co-led by the powerful duo of Julio Desmont and Raphaella Brice alongside members of the Howard Center Arts Collective and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team. It’s a partnership with our lead artists, our Collective, our partner funders, and the larger community. The mural visually articulates what we stand for; what we believe in; and why we march.
Community members within Howard Center and beyond came together to envision the image, which was inspired by Desmont’s original. Howard Center’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director, Catarina Campbell says, “In a world that always needs passionate advocates, we imagine and aspire to be a united community that comes together to uplift and care for one another. This mural articulates the vision of all who contributed across the wide breath of our experiences and identities.”
The mural represents the voices of those individuals who have been historically oppressed— people living with mental illness; struggling with substance use disorder; and/or those who experience stigma and discrimination due to other factors including, race, ethnicity, culture, ability, sexual identities, and more.
Lead artist and pioneer of the idea Julio Desmont says, “Why We March” is not just about protest — it’s about presence, unity, and resilience. It’s about honoring the past while building toward a more just future. I carry that intention with me into every step of this journey, and I remain committed to sharing this message with new communities, wherever the march may lead.”
The mural will be installed on the side of Howard Center’s downtown location at 102 S. Winooski Avenue in Burlington overlooking its neighbor City Market and Burlington to the north. The unveiling will take place on August 11 between 4:00-5:30 pm at the downtown City Market. Refreshments will be provided along with music by Haitian singer/songwriter Steeve Valcourt.
The public is invited to attend. Limited parking is available at Howard Center at 102 S. Winooski Avenue, or public parking on the street, or in the parking garage. Please do not park at City Market.
This community-driven project is funded by the Vermont Community Foundation and Burlington City Arts along with support from the Howard Center Arts Collective and Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
For a sneak preview visit: “Why We March” | A Collaborative Mural Project – Howard Center
