Tarp Over Mural Removed

The city of Dubuque confirmed that officials have removed the tarp covering the 'Solidarity' mural at Five Flags Center. The city directed Oak View Group to remove the tarp, and it has been taken down.

The mural, painted in 2020, is located on the eastern facade of the Five Flags Center. It features 10 raised fists in various colors and includes the word 'solidarity' spelled out in letters and symbols on the wrists.

According to Scott Hallgren, General Manager of Oak View Group, the tarp was placed without authorization. He stated that the decision to cover the mural was made by the Office of Presidential Advance, which organizes official visits for the president.

Hallgren said the White House's goal was to ensure exterior branding and to display a US flag. He added that the city, Oak View Group, and Five Flags Center did not authorize any modifications to the building's exterior.

In a statement, the city of Dubuque reiterated that the tarp was not authorized and ordered its removal. The city owns Five Flags Center, which is operated by Oak View Group.