George Floyd mural in Northern Quarter defaced with racist slur

GMP is currently investigating the crime


The mural in the Northern Quarter of murdered security guard George Floyd has been maliciously defaced with a racist slur.

The slur was found by police on a routine patrol early on Wednesday morning, and the mural was immediately boarded up and hidden from view of the public. 

Councillor Pat Karney declared the graffiti an insult to Mr Floyd’s memory and stated: “This is not what Manchester is about. Manchester is better than this.

“We will do everything we can to find the perpetrator. I can’t imagine what kind of person would do this.”

The artwork, created by artist Akse 19, commemorated George Floyd and was regarded as being a local memorial to the entire Black Lives Matter movement.

The movement continues to draw attention to police brutality, institutional racism, and racism of all kinds; it has been recognised and repeated globally. 

CCTV footage from the area is currently being analysed, with the hope of finding the person/s responsible. 

Artist Akse, visited the site later Wednesday morning and managed to repair the mural; no evidence of the slur remains.  

Councillor Nigel Murphy released a statement, via Facebook: “I’m happy to confirm that the artist who was responsible for the mural has already repaired the damage and restored the mural. 

“A huge thank you for their quick action to put right a wrong that has understandably left many people disturbed that this behaviour exists in our society.

“We will continue to help Greater Manchester Police in their investigation and we are determined to bring the person who committed this crime to justice. I would urge anyone with information to get in touch.” 

An investigation into the crime is ongoing, and a £1000 bounty available for information leading to an arrest. However, no one has yet been arrested. 

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting 610 of 22/07/20 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

Related stories recommended by this writer:

Exclusive: Leaked email reveals UoM’s plans to cut jobs due to income loss

Six bouncers involved in attack at Factory plead guilty and receive sentences

The Deaf Institute and Gorilla have both been saved from closure by new buyer