In this
allegorical scene, we see Lady Liberty, personified, her torch ablaze, lighting
our way through the darkness (evil); the ethereal quality of her edges
symbolizing that she is an “ideal” that we all look up to and hold dear.
Liberty, standing strong and proud, charging forward, while draped in an
American flag, has an American soldier poised at her feet. He is looking
intently into the distance illuminated by her light, ready to protect all of
the Freedoms that we enjoy. As she leads, we see her surrounded by all of us,
representing the diverse fabric of our Nation. Within our faces you can see a
full range of emotion: some filled with comfort and peace, secure in the
sanctuary they have come to know here; many filled with relief having found a
refuge in this turbulent world; some tired and weary, longing to feel the safe
blanket of Freedom.
The composition
speaks to the strengths of us as a Collective, and Diversity the secret to our
strength. Just
as both cotton and synthetic fabric have their individual advantages and
disadvantages, a blend creates a stronger, more resilient garment that will,
without a doubt, hold together better over time. So too is the fabric of our
nation, made stronger by our diverse nature, woven together with our collective
strengths. These philosophies, intertwined into the fabric of who we are, not
without our blemishes, but stronger than any other country on earth.
With our tenacity and determination
growing ever stronger, we are firm in our conviction that we will prevail,
united in our belief that Liberty is our most precious inalienable right and
She will always be lighting our way.
