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The “Wall of Fame” was commissioned by Driffield Town Council, to mark those who’ve worked through the coronavirus crisis. It was installed on Middle Street North in Driffield, a town of 13,000.

The mural was criticised by some residents, who argued it lacked racial diversity.

However other locals suggested it is reflective of the local area, pointing out Driffield is 98.7 percent white.

In total 15 figures are shown on the mural, representing different workers in Driffield.

Those featured include a nurse, shopkeeper and restaurant owner.

Fierce debate erupted about the artwork’s racial inclusiveness on Facebook.

One local, Kerrie Woodhouse-Dove, wrote: “While I really like the idea, it just screams welcome to out ‘white town’.

“Obviously being a minority is even more reinforced by this which is a shame really, some thought could have gone into being a little more inclusive.”

Another added: “This is good but sadly lacks the real diversity in our town, which would have really done the town and town council some good!”

A third said: “Wow, not one person of colour or disabled person and mostly full of men. Representation matters.

“I appreciate the sentiment is celebrating the local businesses and the people behind them who have worked really hard but there are so many other ways this could have been represented in art besides just drawing a load of white people.”

A fourth commented: “What a huge missed opportunity to highlight people of colour in the town as well.”

However other residents defended the mural, suggesting critics were being oversensitive.

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According to the latest census figures, of Driffield’s population of 13,080, 12,909 are white.

One supporter wrote: “Dear me, reading some comments!

“It’s just a picture of people representing their businesses. who have struggled and worked hard to stay afloat, during these difficult times, so sad some of you out there want to be so negative when it’s a positive that brightens up Driffield.”

A second added: “I think this is a lovely piece, celebrating people who actively care and support their town. A good celebration in these Nasty Covid days.

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“If you contribute and work hard you should be recognised. Brilliant job, well done.”

Another posted: “Fabulous and lovely to see the businesses within the high street who have chosen to give their spare time to help make this town nicer what a lovely tribute.”

Concerns over racial representation have surged since last summer, when Black Lives Matter [BLM] protests erupted across the US and UK.

Driffield Town Council defended the mural in a statement to the Daily Mail.

They said: “The people shown run businesses and shops in Middle Street North, Market Place and Middle Street South, also known as the Northern and Station Quarters.

“The town council and the steering group are working hard to support local businesses and this mural is an attempt to boost the town not to cause negative publicity.”
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