Black Cassidy, known for drawing inspiration from ’80s and ’90s pop culture, was brought on board by Castelan for this project. Despite initially being unaware of the 13th Amendment’s exception clause, Cassidy’s involvement in the mural became a transformative experience, sparking personal and social change.
“When I started working on the mural and engaging with community members passing by, I was amazed by how many people were unaware of that exception clause,” Cassidy shares. “It opened my own eyes and sparked important conversations.”
The mural is divided into three sections. The top third, shaded in purple, depicts slave-tended sugar cane fields in Sugar Land and the infamous Columbia Tap Trail, also known as Sugar Road, which transported enslaved individuals to the fields. The lower third, tinted in blue, juxtaposes imprisoned laborers on the right with enslaved men on the left. The vibrant center section showcases women toiling in the fields.
Rhodes takes center stage in the mural, with his image overlapping with two women harvesting sugar cane while he gazes upward. For Rhodes, art is a means to raise awareness about social issues and inspire action.
“By placing the mural in a public space, it becomes accessible to everyone,” Rhodes explains. “It serves as a catalyst for starting conversations and motivating people to take action.”
Aside from its educational value, the mural has proven to be a powerful tool for community engagement. Cassidy recalls the profound conversations he had with Cuney Homes residents during the mural’s creation, allowing him to gain insight into the community’s experiences and needs.
“It was an honor to connect with the people of Cuney Homes,” Cassidy reflects. “They shared their stories with me, and their voices continue to inspire my work.”
Residents, local officials, and activists came together to celebrate the completion of the project, honoring the enslaved individuals who once toiled in the area. The mural’s message struck a chord with the community, becoming a focal point for discussions on racial justice and social change.
In the weeks following the mural’s debut, Cassidy has been hard at work expanding its impact. He has partnered with local organizations to host educational events and workshops based on the mural’s message. Additionally, he is exploring opportunities to create similar murals in other communities.