After a public outcry from tens of dozens of concerned citizens, the Santa Clarita City Council has finally begun to consider a ban on the use, sale, delivery, and distribution of sidewalk chalk within city limits.
The outrage over the once-beloved art supply began on Juneteenth when teenage activists used washable white chalk spray paint to write “BLM” on Cinema Drive in Valencia. Two months after the incident, 3 local teenagers involved were arrested and now face charges for felony vandalism. The City of Santa Clarita, which spent roughly $2,300 dollars on the removal of the chalk, seeks to have the children punished to the fullest extent of the law. According to Carrie Lujan, a spokesperson for the City of Santa Clarita, the artwork was removed as quickly as possible. “We don’t want to be seen as a city that supports that kind of stuff,” Lujan concluded.
“Folks, let me tell you, sidewalk chalk is just a gateway substance to washable paint,” says Councilman Bob Kellar. “First it’s cute butterflies and robot drawings, then next thing you know these kids are wanting justice for people of color.”
