Murals unveiled Friday in downtown Tempe were inspired by what the artist said is the need to address the challenges and opportunities presented by migrant children from Mexico who are living in the United States.

"I know no matter where you stand politically, in regard to immigration, the fact is there are hundreds of thousands of migrant children coming to this country every year, and they're in our school districts," Kyle Holbrook said prior to the unveiling at the Tempe Mission Palms, 60 E. 5th St. in Tempe.

"They deserve education and empowerment to become the best Americans for the sake of our country's future.” 

The murals will be installed in downtown Tempe and the Madison and Pendergast school districts in Phoenix, according to a release.

Educators from 118 school districts and 34 states collaborated in painting the murals during a three-day conference hosted by the Urban Collaborative, a group that meets regularly to discuss topics related to special education.

"These murals will create a voice for the voiceless, shining a light on the challenges faced by migrant children and the educators who support them,” Lauren Katzman, executive director of the Urban Collaborative.

The murals also feature contributions from local youth in the Phoenix area.

In addition to Holbrook and the Urban Collaborative, the Moving Lives of Kids Art Center was a part of the project. The organization’s goal is “leveraging art as a tool for social change and empowering marginalized communities.

"Being able to paint a mural with such importance to humanize and depoliticize these young children who are now residents of America is an honor,” Holbrook said.

“Art is a powerful tool to bring attention to important causes, and I'm honored to be part of this.”

For more: MLKmural.com