The ‘Martyrs of Injustice/Heroes of Protest’ Mural is a summer mural project sponsored by the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design and Milwaukee Lutheran High School.  The mural project was spearheaded by MIAD New Studio Practice professor Brad Anthony Bernard as lead artist and co-project manager in collaboration with Milwaukee Lutheran High School art teacher Jason Crayton. Bernard and Crayton, as two African American men of agency through art education, were compelled to represent their support of the protests through what they both do best as artists and educators.   The mural painting team under Bernard and Crayton’s guidance consisted of MIAD sophomores and MLHS class of 2018 alumni, as well as community volunteers and artists. RSR Services 6036 W. Beloit Rd in West Allis have contributed the exterior wall of their building as the location to install the 12 ft. x 32 ft. mural as a symbol of their support for the BLM Movement. The ‘Martyrs of Injustice’ are symbolized as images in memory of Milwaukee law enforcement victims Ernest Lacy and Dontre Hamilton. The ‘Heroes of Protest’ are depicted through the likenesses of protest organizers Khalil Coleman, Markasa Tucker, Vaun Mayes, and Frank Nitty II.

Due to COVID-19, an ‘invitation only’ group will attend the mural unveiling ‘on-site’ followed by a brief program which will be posted on social media.  The lead artist, co-project manager, protest organizers and family members of the deceased will address attendees with brief program scheduled to take place in August at the mural location.