A contractor working for the Birmingham City Council has issued an apology after inadvertently painting over a mural depicting the late poet and actor Benjamin Zephaniah in Hockley, central Birmingham. The mural, which emerged following Zephaniah’s passing at the age of 65 in December, adorned the wall of an underpass in the area.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Kier, the council contractor responsible for graffiti removal, expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging the distress caused by their actions. They clarified that the removal occurred during routine duties and was not motivated by any ill intentions.
The removal of the mural has elicited disappointment from various quarters, including the Benjamin Zephaniah Family Legacy organization, which had received assurances from the council regarding the mural’s protection. Zephaniah’s brother, Tippa Naphtali, decried the removal, emphasizing its lack of respect for both the late poet and the community.
The incident has sparked criticism within Birmingham, with individuals such as historian Carl Chinn and Jagwant Johal from the Birmingham Race Impact Group condemning the action as disgraceful and outrageous, respectively. Concerns have been raised about the disconnect between the council and its working-class neighborhoods.
Responding to the controversy, Birmingham City Council clarified that Kier was contracted to inspect and remove graffiti from subways monthly. While the Hockley subway, home to notable artworks by sculptor William Mitchell, is protected by an order to preserve art, the Zephaniah mural was located on an outer wall not covered by the order.
In light of the backlash, Kier has pledged to review its graffiti removal process in collaboration with the council, with a focus on demonstrating greater sensitivity. The contractor expressed willingness to engage with the artist and provide support to recreate the artwork in a manner befitting Benjamin Zephaniah’s legacy.
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the unveiling of a major official mural celebrating Zephaniah’s life and activism in Handsworth Park. Commissioned by the Black Heritage Walks Network and created by graffiti artist Bunny Bread and cartoonist Hunt Emerson, the mural aims to honor Zephaniah as a champion of the people.
Reflecting on the removal of the Hockley mural, Bunny Bread lamented the lack of information surrounding the decision and advocated for its reinstatement, emphasizing Zephaniah’s significance deserving of multiple tributes.
As discussions continue regarding the fate of the mural, the public eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the forthcoming tribute in Handsworth Park, celebrating Benjamin Zephaniah’s enduring legacy.
