There is new evidence in the investigation into a controversial firefighter mural in Boynton Beach. The mural had the faces of Black firefighters, including the city’s first female Black firefighter, painted white.
Our investigation revealed the city manager was aware of the change to the mural and did nothing to stop it.
“And subsequently had some modifications made to it that I was not aware of,” said Lori LaVerriere in a statement on YouTube on June 5, 2020.
On June 6, LaVerriere posted a statement on the city’s website where she said, “I have been very clear that I will not tolerate any employee to be disrespectful…to any members of our community.”
But our investigation and public records request paint a different picture.
“We found out the city manager was aware of the decision to whitewash the face of Clemons. The city has put up the original mural but the damage to Ms. Clemons has already been done,” said attorney Nicole Hunt Jackson.
“I am still baffled by this entire experience,” said Latosha Clemons. “I’m having difficulty sleeping all involved in making the decision to change that art should be held accountable, this can’t be swept under the rug.”
Jackson sent a letter of demand to the city.