“The people in this picture do not represent Galax.” – City Councilman Shane Coomes. 

The perception is that Shane Coomes doesn’t believe diversity represents our city. That is interesting considering that the banjo, a staple of bluegrass music, originated from Africa. He singled out only one of the mural options; it’s no coincidence it is the one depicting diversity.The grant and process had been previously voted on and decided. The city is likely to lose the grant that funded the murals due to the anti cs of a bigoted councilman.  It was a 4/3 vote to remove the figures from the mural. 

I am disappointed in the city council members who voted alongside the bigoted actions and words spewed by Shane Coomes. I am calling for the resignation of Shane Coomes, and I hope you all will join me.