Jose Clemente Orozco (1883-1949) was one of the most famous Mexican muralists of his day. He painted in the Expressionism style with fellow artists Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros to document events of Mexican history. This work depicts the followers of slain revolutionary peasant, Emiliano Zapata, being led to their death. All elements of this work from the black and earthy reds and browns, to the rhythm of figures and sombreros across the page, to the faces we can see add to the excruciating truth of this march. This is a work of unspeakable human pain, resignation, and injustice.

In this month of celebrating Hispanic heritage, may we honor the Hispanic artists and artists of all countries who use their brushes in protest. May we honor these artists who use creativity to counter depravity and to memorialize the unthinkable lest we forget the past by design or fading attention.

We pray in God’s name that those pictured here rest in love and peace. We give thanks for Jose Clemente Orozco and this witness. Amen.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church