KEHINDE WILEY’S “RUMORS OF WAR” IS HERE. I JOINED OVER A THOUSAND IN ATTENDANCE AND WAS TRULY MOVED.
I’m not even going to try to tamper my emotions when it comes to the unveiling of “Rumors of War,” the brand new sculpture installation by Kehinde Wiley, that is now on the front lawn of the VMFA, on what is now Arthur Ashe Boulevard. The ceremony (and the moment ) was historic, transformative, and very emotional.
I stood in awe of the 27-foot bronze statue that depicts a young African American person with dreadlocks, a hoodie, jeans, and Nike sneakers, riding on top of a horse. This new monument located less than a mile away from Confederate monuments erected to honor fallen generals and to this day divides our community.
I couldn’t help but notice the racial diversity in the crowd. The powerful words in the speeches given by Governor Ralph Northam, Mayor Levar Stoney, and Kehinde himself. I couldn’t help but notice the parents that brought their children to witness history. There were so many smiles, so many laughs, and so many tears of joy. It reminded me of Obama’s historic election night party. The fact that this happened in Richmond, on Arthur Ashe Boulevard, and I was able to attend, witness, and take it all in will stay with me for the rest of my life.
Even with the rain and the temporary unveiling delay, there is nothing that could assuage my excitement and joy of the moment. I felt blessed to have been present. #WESEEIT
The Cheats Movement is dedicated to hip-hop culture, politics, and community activity. We see our community different than most, therefore, #WESEEIT
A truly beautiful statue addition to the Richmond scene. I also love the inspiration for the title, “Rumors of War.” Matthews 24:6 “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”
The end is not yet, indeed.