Student-Created Mural Installed at CareFirst Arena, Turning Public Space into a Canvas for Youth Voices

Mural at CareFirst Arena

Transform DC artwork from DC Public Schools students debuts at Arena through partnership with CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield and Events DC

 CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), in partnership with Events DC and DC Public Schools (DCPS), has unveiled a new student-created mural at CareFirst Arena, transforming one of the venue's most visible exterior spaces into a platform for youth expression and community storytelling.

Created through Transform DC, DCPS' annual public art initiative, the mural features collaborative artwork from students at Anacostia High School, Calvin Coolidge High School and Garnet-Patterson STAY Opportunity Academy. This year's theme, "We are the Builders, Our City, Our Blueprint," invited students to reflect on their role in shaping the future of Washington, D.C. The mural is currently on public display as Arena events ramp up for the summer, including graduations, Washington Mystics games and the youth-focused Late Night Hype on Friday, July 17, in partnership with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation.

"Seeing your artwork displayed in a public space sends a powerful message: Your voice matters, and your ideas can help shape the community around you," said Mack McGee, Chief Marketing Officer at CareFirst. "We're proud to support students while also creating opportunities in the areas around CareFirst Arena that make St. Elizabeths campus a destination."

Now in its 10th year, Transform DC-through support by DCPS' Office of Teaching and Learning-brings together students from across the city to create public art installations that elevate student perspectives and foster civic pride.

"Congratulations to our student artists from Anacostia High School, Coolidge High School, and Garnet-Patterson STAY Opportunity Academy on bringing their work to CareFirst Arena," said DCPS Interim Chancellor Dr. Kim Jackson. "These pieces are thoughtful, bold and rooted in how our scholars see their communities. Through art, they are adding to the creative energy and vibrant culture of Ward 8 in a way that only young people can."

The mural installation is part of CareFirst's ongoing work in Ward 8, supporting community-led projects and contributing to local programming and other critical issues impacting the community. CareFirst's broader commitment recognizes that health starts where people live, learn and connect, and that investing in spaces where communities come together can help build stronger, healthier neighborhoods. As part of its long-term partnership with Events DC, CareFirst has invested in local programming and partnerships that support workforce development, maternal health, food insecurity and other critical issues impacting the community.

"Events DC is excited to showcase the incredible artwork created by students from DC Public Schools at CareFirst Arena," said Angie M. Gates, President and CEO of Events DC. "Our commitment to the communities we serve drives us to ensure that CareFirst Arena remains a vibrant hub for sports, entertainment, connection, and opportunity. We take great pride in highlighting the creativity of District residents and this mural gives our students a platform to leave a lasting impact on a space that truly belongs to the community."

To learn more about CareFirst's commitment to the community, visit CareFirst.com/Transformation.