The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, was a generous gift from France to the United States in 1886. Originally intended to celebrate the centennial of American independence and the enduring friendship between the two nations, this iconic statue has stood tall on Liberty Island as a beacon of hope and liberty for millions. However, this connection between our countries has seen transformations that beckon a reassessment of this symbolic gesture.

The words of the poem held by Lady Liberty ring hollow today. 

“Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame. "Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

When the statue was built, America was on an upward trajectory in regards to freedom and liberty. Though imperfect, and with a lot of room to improve, this nation at the very least strived toward something better for all people. It was a land of opportunity built on the labor and hopes of the immigrants, the minorities, the marginalized, and those seeking a better future. 

Great strides towards civil rights and equality were made up through the 20th century. Few of these came easily. But we showed that we as a nation can grow and learn from past failures and successes alike. We displayed a strong commitment to improving our nation and the lives of the millions who call this land home. 

This positive trend of social progress however has become a thing of the past. The United States is no longer the bastion of freedom it presents itself as. The “tired”, the “poor”, the “homeless” the “huddled masses yearning to breathe free” have become the enemies of the state  For all its claims of being a “Christian nation” it is astonishing to witness how this country treats “The least of these”. 

The ties between France and the United States, though historically strong, have recently been marked by tensions and changed political landscapes. It's time for us to reconsider the significance of this gesture and address what the statue represents today. By repossessing the Statue of Liberty, France can reinforce its commitment to promoting equality, liberty, and brotherhood, principles deeply rooted in French history and culture.

Moreover, reclaiming the statue will allow France to prominently showcase it within its borders, providing educational opportunities about our shared history, and the values of freedom and democracy that both countries cherish. This action could serve as a symbolic gesture of renewal, strengthening diplomatic ties and opening up new avenues for cultural exchange between our nations.

This petition aims to spark dialogue and engage citizens and political leaders alike, encouraging them to consider this unique opportunity to preserve our shared legacy while invigorating contemporary cultural and diplomatic ties. Sign this petition to urge the French government to reclaim the Statue of Liberty, and foster a renewed commitment to the shared values of liberty and democracy.