San Mateo City Hall removes Diego Marcial Rios exhibition depicting police violence after complaints

San Mateo City Hall removed all 20 works by California artist Diego Marcial Rios from a public exhibition following complaints about content depicting police violence against racial minorities. The Chicano artist's exhibition opened on July 17 through an open call program at both City Hall and the San Mateo Public Library. Within two days, gallery coordinator for the San Mateo Public Library notified Rios via email that his paintings had caused concern among city employees. Initially asked to swap certain works, Rios later discovered the entire display had been taken down. Interim San Mateo city manager Christina Horrisberger stated the works offended numerous community members and staff, prompting removal to maintain a welcoming environment. The exhibition program has been suspended while officials reassess. Rios received an email from Fox News Digital asking for response to backlash from the San Mateo Police Department, marking his first experience with censorship. The artist questioned why the police department felt threatened by his artwork.