Boxcar Blog

Reflecting on the Legacy of Liberty

As we commemorate the dedication anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, we reflect on her enduring symbolism and the welcoming message she conveys. Just as Lady Liberty has stood as a steadfast guide for those embarking on new journeys, we at Boxcar celebrate the spirit of freedom, progress, and resilience, making each commute an opportunity for new beginnings.

The Statue of Liberty: Illuminating the Path of Freedom and Hope

On the anniversary of the Statue of Liberty's dedication, we celebrate a symbol that has stood as a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and hope for nearly 140 years. Gifted by France to the United States and dedicated on October 28, 1886, this iconic statue is far more than a landmark; it embodies the shared values of liberty and democracy that define the American spirit and inspire people worldwide.

A Symbol of Freedom and Democracy

When the Statue of Liberty was first envisioned by French political thinker Édouard René de Laboulaye, the idea was clear: this statue would stand as a powerful symbol of freedom in a world rife with oppression. Sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi brought this vision to life, designing Lady Liberty to hold high a torch, symbolizing enlightenment. Her tablet bears the date of American independence, July 4, 1776, reflecting the United States’ commitment to democracy and human rights.

The torch in her hand represents the light of freedom illuminating the path forward for all who seek a new beginning, a brighter future, and the chance to live without fear. For millions, she has served as an ever-present reminder that liberty is not just an ideal but a lived experience.

“Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor…”: Welcoming the World’s Dreamers

The addition of Emma Lazarus’s poem “The New Colossus” in 1903 added a layer of profound meaning to the statue’s role in the American story. Her words, etched onto a bronze plaque inside the statue’s pedestal, opened the statue’s welcoming arms to the world: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”

This poem transformed Lady Liberty from a symbol of abstract ideals into a tangible emblem of hope for immigrants arriving on America’s shores. For many of the over 12 million people who passed through Ellis Island, the first sight of the Statue of Liberty meant freedom from oppression and the promise of opportunity in a new land. It was a hopeful and solemn moment, as they stepped into a place where they could rebuild, redefine, and rediscover life.

‍

A Testament to Endurance and Resilience

The Statue of Liberty’s longevity and preservation reflect her strength and resilience. As the oldest symbol of freedom afloat in New York Harbor, she has weathered storms, witnessed wars, and withstood challenges that tested the nation’s core principles. Her copper exterior has transformed over time, turning green with age, which only enhances her beauty and signifies her resilience.

From her restoration in 1986 to the recent opening of the Statue of Liberty Museum in 2019, care and reverence have ensured her survival for future generations. Today, Lady Liberty serves as a constant reminder that the values she represents are enduring, timeless, and necessary for a just and equitable society.

Lady Liberty: A Beacon of Inspiration for All

The Statue of Liberty does not belong to one nation alone; she speaks to a universal longing for freedom. Her seven-pointed crown represents the seven continents and seas, extending her symbolic reach to every corner of the globe. Each point stands for the belief that liberty is a birthright, not a privilege, and that justice and opportunity should be accessible to all people.

In the U.S., she has inspired movements for civil rights, women’s rights, and immigrant rights, standing as a silent witness to social change and progress. Around the world, her image has inspired similar statues, paintings, and monuments, furthering her message of hope and inclusion.

The Spirit of Liberty Today

As we honor the anniversary of her dedication, we at Boxcar reflect on Lady Liberty's timeless message and are inspired to bring that spirit of freedom and inclusion to our work. Just as she represents boundless opportunity and new beginnings, we strive to make every journey an experience enriched by the values of equality, respect, and the pursuit of happiness.

Today, we not only celebrate a statue; we celebrate an idea that transcends borders, reaches across time, and connects us all in the shared pursuit of a brighter, freer future.

‍