Remembering Terry Rodriguez
LaToya Peoples, 2024
2455 Main Street, Springfield
The "Remembering Terry Rodriguez" mural, created by artist LaToya Peoples in 2024, stands as a vibrant tribute to the enduring legacy of Milagros "Terry" Rodriguez, a dedicated community activist from Springfield, Massachusetts. Located at the New North Citizens Council, where Terry devoted 33 years to public service, the mural features a central portrait of her encircled by a simplified sunburst in her favorite color, orange, symbolizing warmth, growth, and abundance. Her shirt is adorned with a pattern of echinacea flowers, renowned for their healing properties, reflecting her lifelong commitment to guiding individuals toward healing and personal transformation.
To the right of Terry's portrait, a group of butterflies emerges from an outstretched hand, symbolizing transformation and beauty. Collectively, these butterflies represent the numerous individuals Terry assisted throughout her career and the strength found in communal support during times of change. Through this mural, Peoples encapsulates Terry Rodriguez's spirit and her inspiring example of a lifetime spent helping people in need, guiding them to resources to transform their lives, heal themselves, and recognize the beauty and joy in that growth
LaToya Peoples is a Philadelphia native and Baltimore-based artist, muralist, educator, curator, and creative entrepreneur. She is known for her vibrant artwork that explores themes of community, identity, and social justice. Her murals frequently feature symbolic imagery that celebrates healing, transformation, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through her thoughtful use of color and symbolism, Peoples creates public art that inspires reflection and fosters connections within communities.
