This concept was inspired by Maya Angelou’s famous “Caged Bird” poem. Just like in the poem, the bird is a symbol of the African-American experience, and the cage represents oppression and struggle. The cage also represents the flawed US justice system where African-Americans are incarcerated in state prisons at nearly five times the rate of white Americans (source). The Black woman surrounded by foliage is a symbol of mother nature and modern humans’ origins coming from Africa. The cage comes out of her head, to symbolize how deep the struggle for equality is for Black people.

This mural is one of ten selected to be featured as public art in downtown Atascadero, CA. All concepts revolve around ideas of diversity, inclusivity, and equality. Learn more about the project here.