A controversial mural depicting a Chinese character from Dr. Seuss’ first children’s book “And to Think That I Saw it on Mulberry Street” still stood Monday morning at the Dr. Seuss Museum in Springfield, Massachusetts, days after the decision was announced to replace it with later works.

The decision to replace the mural has been controversial.

It came after three authors vowed to boycott an event at the museum, calling the mural a “jarring racial stereotype.”

Springfield Museums Director of Public Relations and Marketing Karen Fisk told 22News (wwlp.com) a message will be placed under the mural until it can be amended.

It says in part, “This image is part of the history and evolution of Dr. Seuss.  We hope it can be a teachable moment for parents and teachers to discuss with children why stereotypes can be harmful.”

Fisk also said the mural is not for sale because it is property of Dr. Seuss Enterprises.

Springfield businessman Peter Picknelly had offered to buy the mural over the weekend, as did western Massachusetts entrepreneur Andrew Yee.

Also among those against the decision to remove the mural is Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. He released a statement Friday asking Dr. Seuss Enterprises to reconsider.
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(Information from wwlp.com)