The "We, The Kids" mural, a 300-foot-by-50-foot painted American flag, was created under the guidance of artist Kimmie Gillespie as part of the nationwide America 250 celebration. It commemorates the nation's upcoming birthday while encouraging young people to reflect on citizenship, service, and the power of community.
"The vision behind the mural today is kids coming together to create something beautiful. They get to actually use their hands, make something so massive and so huge for everyone to see," Gillespie said. "Because that's what America is all about, we all come together no matter what race or religion we are, we are all here together."
About 75 kids from five Boys & Girls Clubs across the Houston area participated in the project. As the children painted, they also received lessons on the American flag and patriotism. Mark Martin is the Senior Director of Board Governance and Communications.
"We want to make sure they (kids) understand where they live, and we want them to have a good understanding of what it's like to be here in the United States and appreciate 250 years," Martin said.
In addition, a Declaration of Independence was painted next to the flag, and the participating kids signed it.
The temporary mural will be displayed through the Independence Day holiday at the BGCGH headquarters, located at 815 Crosby Street in Houston.