Check out the new We Are Anacostia mural by Luis Peralta Del Valle

From a press release:

“Today, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) and Anacostia BID introduced a new welcoming sign to the residents and visitors of Historic Anacostia SE DC, the We Are Anacostia mural.

The mural is the vision of award-winning artist Luis Peralta Del Valle with inspiration from the Anacostia community. The impressive painting is approximately 200 feet, with two sides, and serves as a visual timeline marking the proud past and present of the Anacostia Historic District;

the Anacostia Native Americans who fished in the Anacostia River, Marion Barry who led the District with a fighting spirit, Frederick Douglass whose estate sits atop a hill in Anacostia, a young couple of Anacostia who stand for social justice and affordable housing and two young children who study technology and science.

DCRA Director Ernest Chrappah, Anacostia BID Executive Director, Artist Luis Del Valle, and several Anacostia business owners and residents, were all on hand today to provide a sneak peek of the mural. Director Chrappah explains, “The mural project is a partnership between DCRA and the Anacostia BID to turn an empty lot that was a bit of an eyesore into something beautiful. DCRA built the wall that serves as the canvass, and the Anacostia BID, working with the community, commissioned the mural. Mayor Bowser has charged DCRA with making sure vacant properties are safe and secure, and this mural is creative way of delivering on that mission.”

The mural is on the left as you drive over the Anacostia Bridge towards MLK Jr. Ave and Good Hope Rd, SE DC. So, take a drive-by and see the past, present and bright future, as you enjoy Historic Anacostia.”