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In a powerful tribute to Black history and culture, the Los Angeles Rams unveiled a stunning
1,370-square-foot mural at Nickerson Gardens on Saturday, February 22, 2025. The event,
which also featured a community celebration, is the latest in the Rams’ ongoing commitment to
uplifting and investing in historically underserved communities.
The mural, created by renowned artist Brian Peterson, pays homage to some of the most
influential Black figures in Rams history. The artwork features Kenny Washington and Woody
Strode—pioneers who helped break the NFL’s color barrier—as well as Hall of Fame defensive
lineman David “Deacon” Jones, legendary offensive tackle Jackie Slater, and quarterback
James “Shack” Harris, the first Black quarterback to start and win a playoff game in the modern
NFL era.
The unveiling event turned into a vibrant community gathering, with a backyard barbecue, a DJ
spinning classic and contemporary hits, and football drills for local youth. Residents of
Nickerson Gardens, the largest public housing development in Los Angeles, took part in the
festivities, celebrating a mural that now stands as a visual testament to Black excellence in
sports and beyond.
The inclusion of Washington and Strode in the mural carries deep historical significance. In
1946, the duo became two of the first Black players to reintegrate professional football when
they signed with the Rams—one year before Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier.
Their courage paved the way for future generations of Black athletes in the NFL.
Deacon Jones, one of the most feared defensive linemen in history, revolutionized the game
with his aggressive playstyle and coined the term “sack.” Jackie Slater, a seven-time Pro
Bowler, played an astonishing 20 seasons with the Rams, setting the gold standard for longevity
and excellence. James “Shack” Harris, meanwhile, helped break racial barriers at quarterback,
a position that for decades had been largely denied to Black athletes due to racist stereotypes
about leadership and intelligence.
“Every one of these men changed the game in their own way,” Peterson said during the
unveiling. “This mural isn’t just about honoring the past—it’s about inspiring the next
generation.”
The Rams’ Growing Presence in Watts remains steadfast. The mural is part of the Rams’
broader initiative to support Black communities and promote social change. In September 2024,
the team partnered with the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) to install a
60-yard turf football field at Nickerson Gardens, providing local youth with a safe space to play
and develop their skills. The field and mural together serve as a lasting symbol of the team’s
investment in the community.
Peterson, whose artistic works include the famous Kobe and Gigi Bryant mural at the Nickerson
Gardens gymnasium, has been a key figure in using art to bring visibility to Black culture and
history in Los Angeles. His latest work now stands as another landmark in Watts, a
neighborhood often overlooked in the city’s larger sports and cultural conversations.
The mural quickly became a focal point for local residents and sports fans alike. Many
attendees expressed appreciation for the Rams’ efforts, seeing them as more than just symbolic
gestures. “It means a lot to have this here,” said one resident. “The kids growing up in Nickerson
Gardens can look at this and see what’s possible.”
The event also sparked conversation on social media. Videos of the unveiling circulated widely,
with fans and commentators praising the Rams for their continued engagement with South Los
Angeles communities. However, some activists pointed out that while the team’s initiatives are
commendable, more sustained economic investment is needed in Watts beyond sports-related
projects.
As the Rams continue their outreach efforts, the mural at Nickerson Gardens stands as a
reminder of the profound impact that Black athletes have had on the NFL and the broader
sports world. By celebrating pioneers and trailblazers, the team is not only honoring history but
also reinforcing its commitment to equity and representation in professional football.
With Black History Month 2025 now over, the mural serves as more than just a tribute—it is a
challenge to keep the spirit of “Inspire Change” alive all year round.
“Play Ball”.
