The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of French-American alliance. Gifted to the United States by France in 1886 for the belief of shared democratic values and friendship. 

Although, due to President Trumps’ recent comments and value changes French politician Raphael Glucksmann believes that the Statue of Liberty should be returned to the French providence. The craftsmanship and art that the statue represents has many locals of France also believing that it should belong on French soil.

Statue of Liberty

While Lady Liberty is a staple in American culture, and is deeply rooted in America’s history, Owen Thome De Souza believes “France should have the right to take back what they made… yeah it was a gift but what that gift stood for, no longer applies.” 

Alahna Bonoan had a different opinion saying,

“No, the Statue belongs in the U.S. because they already gifted it to us, thats like taking away a birthday present from when you were 5 just because you got a bad grade on your report card” 

While opinions differ, it’s easy to understand that the beliefs and values tied to Lady Liberty have shifted over time. Whether she stays in New York or returns to France, one thing is clear: the meaning behind the statue is still up for interpretation, and that conversation may be more important now than ever.