Peace & Justice Banners

Energizing historic spaces

Peace & Justice Plaza is the square in front of the Old Post Office at 179 E. Franklin Street. It honors the energy and spirit of the thousands who – for decades – have exercised their rights to assembly and speech and have spoken out on issues of peace, justice, and equality.

The Peace and Justice Plaza banners were born out of community conversations during the time of the Black Lives Matter movement and the protests following the murder of George Floyd. At the time, a student activist approached the Town about creating permanent public art that would honor the ongoing use of the space as a place of community protest.

The Power of Good Trouble

Sadie Rose, 2024

Temporarily located at Peace & Justice Plaza

ARTIST STATEMENT

In a vibrant tapestry of symbolism, this design intertwines the bold red poppy flowers, dogwood flowers, synonymous with remembrance and resilience. Featuring illustration of local activist James “TT” Foushee, a beacon of light and advocacy for his community. During Easter Week of 1964, Foushee, along with three others, started a fast on the post office lawn on Franklin Street. The Ku Klux Klan later responded with a rally in town. These elements converge with the image of a graduate, adorned in their blue cap and gown, defiantly protesting, embodying the spirit of courage and determination we’ve witnessed from some community members. Together, they evoke the essence of the ongoing struggle for racial justice, each element a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge the status quo. Through their collective presence, they echo the timeless words of the late John Lewis, urging us to stir up “Good Trouble” in pursuit of a more equitable world.

Update: Please see this message from Chapel Hill Town Manager Chris Blue about the removal of this display.

The History of Peace & Justice Plaza

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