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Get matched →'Rita's Spotlight' by Rixy is a public mural commissioned to honor the life and legacy of Rita Hester, a Black trans woman and beloved Allston community member. The mural was installed in July 2022.
The mural depicts Rita surrounded by roses and vibrant colors from the trans pride flag. It also features a quote from one of Rita's poems in the top right corner.
Rixy (she/her), born 1995 in Roxbury, Massachusetts, is a Latinx Caribbean reclaimed street artist. She reflects narratives of feminine exuberance through stylized and inclusive storyworlds. Recent work includes participation in TheCreateWell's Converging Liberations Residency at Mass MoCA, POW!WOW!Worcester Golden Year Muralist, and Artist-in-Residence with Elevated Thought and Public Art Accelerator Artist with Now+There.
The City engaged with members of the trans and nonbinary community in working groups during the mural process. Lala Shanks served as the mural consultant and led a community engagement process that included Rita's family members, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and staff from the Massachusetts Transgender Emergency Fund. Rixy also spoke with community working groups via Zoom to gather input on the mural design.
Rita Hester was a Black trans woman whose passing sparked a movement in Boston and beyond. Her death resulted from transphobia and anti-trans violence. Trans activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith started the Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed annually on November 20, as a dedication to Rita Hester and other trans individuals who died from anti-trans violence.
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