African American Trailblazers Mural

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By Kiara Sanders

The African American Trailblazers mural celebrates twelve Black trailblazers who helped shape and improve the Chapel Hill and Carrboro community.

Installed 2021
Located at 111 S. Merritt Mill Road

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Learn About The Honorees

Artist Statement

“The composition that I had in mind was strongly influenced by the artworks of Harlem Renaissance artist Aaron Douglas. His figures often had auras that seemed to radiate from them, giving them a powerful presence that I feel would be fitting for the trail-blazing African-American people this mural is dedicated to.”

Where It's Located

The mural is located at the Chapel Hill-Carrboro line, on a building home to two Black-owned businesses, Walt’s Grill and Ms. Molly’s Gift Shop.

“Once we shared the concept of the mural, everyone we approached saw the need to honor these community members and the value that a mural like this brings to downtown.” says Jemma Boler, President of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Area Alumnae Chapel of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Made Possible Thanks To These Organizations