A mural honoring a slain Ukrainian refugee has ignited controversy in Providence, Rhode Island, after links to a national campaign reportedly backed by Elon Musk surfaced. This is drawing backlash from the queer community and city officials. The plan includes creating murals of Zarutska in cities across America.
The artwork, painted on the side of gay bar The Dark Lady, depicts Iryna Zarutska, who was killed last year in North Carolina. The project was halted after concerns emerged over political motivations and a lack of city authorization. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has called for the mural’s removal, while officials noted the project had not been properly registered with the city. Artist Ian Gaudreau defended the work, saying, “I would like everyone to know that the artwork is meant to combat the idea of it being used for a political agenda.”
But the controversy intensified after reports revealed the mural is part of a broader campaign funded by a $1 million donation from Musk, alongside additional contributions from Intercom CEO Eoghan McCabe, who is a Trump supporter. However, the owners of the bar emphasized that the mural’s intent was remembrance. They issued a statement saying, “This specific mural was created for our community to honor Iryna’s memory, mental wellness, LGBTQIA+ rights, immigration, the war, unity, and anti-Trump policies.”
