Photo: Lucas Compan

Near the end of Ken Burns’ documentary on the Statue of Liberty, historian David McCullough reflects on the statue’s symbolism. “She isn’t a warrior. She isn’t bombastic or threatening. She isn’t a symbol of power. The Statue of Liberty is an act of faith.”

McCullough emphasizes the core values that have always been essential to America’s growth and resilience in times of adversity:

Faith in Democracy and Freedom – The statue was a gift from France to the United States, meant to symbolize shared democratic values. At the time of its dedication in 1886, democracy was still an evolving experiment. The statue embodied faith that democratic ideals could endure and inspire.

Faith in America’s Promise – The statue stands as a beacon to immigrants arriving in the U.S., representing hope for a better future. It is a monument to the belief that America could fulfill its promise of opportunity, equality, and liberty—even when reality often fell short.

Faith in Progress – The very act of constructing and erecting such a massive, ambitious monument in the late 19th century required confidence in human ingenuity, collaboration, and perseverance. It was a testament to the idea that people, working together, could create something lasting and meaningful.

Faith in Ourselves – The collective strength and character of the American people. Throughout history, we have faced enormous challenges, yet time and again, we have shown the resilience to rebuild and push forward. The statue calls on us to believe in our ability to rise above adversity and fulfill the ideals on which this nation was founded. It is a reminder that the power to shape our future lies within each of us. It requires conviction, courage, and a strong moral compass to navigate our deepest divisions.

That act of faith is being tested today. As the nation struggles with deep political and cultural division, and the unraveling of trust in its leaders and institutions, Lady Liberty stands as a silent witness to our troubling times. But she was never meant to be a relic of the past. She is a challenge to the present: a symbol of optimism in an uncertain world, a reminder that democracy is not self-sustaining.

Yet her greatest message is not just about the principles she represents, but the people who must uphold them. Her light still shines, but it is up to us to ensure it remains a beacon—not just of what we were, but of what we can still become.