The famous line, often attributed to Emma Lazarus’s poem “The New Colossus” inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, encapsulates an invitation to those marginalized and struggling to seek refuge and opportunity. The verse expresses an open-armed welcome to immigrants arriving in the United States. As an example, the phrase suggests a willingness to accept individuals regardless of their economic status or past hardships.
The impact of this sentiment lies in its powerful message of inclusion and hope. It represents a vision of a society that values compassion and offers a chance for a better life to those in need. Historically, it has served as a guiding principle in discussions about immigration policy and national identity, shaping debates about who belongs and what responsibilities a nation has to those seeking entry. The quote functions as a reminder of the ideals upon which the United States was purportedly founded: liberty, equality, and opportunity for all.
The poor, as used in this context, is an adjective, describing the economic condition of the people being referenced. Understanding the adjectival nature of poor is crucial for analyzing the quote’s significance and implications within broader discussions of social justice, immigration, and national values. The subsequent sections will further explore the multifaceted dimensions of this adjectival description and its lasting relevance.
1. Economic Vulnerability
The phrase “give us your poor quote” does not function in isolation; rather, it draws its power from the harsh realities of economic vulnerability. Picture families, stripped of their livelihoods by famine, fleeing drought-stricken lands with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Envision artisans, their skills rendered obsolete by industrialization, left with no means to feed their children. These are not abstract concepts, but the very people to whom the invitation is extended. “Poor” is not merely an adjective; it’s a descriptor of lives constrained by lack, by the absence of opportunity, by the constant threat of destitution. The phrase promises a sanctuary, a place where economic hardship, though perhaps not eradicated, might be mitigated by access to resources and the chance to build a more stable future. Without the element of economic vulnerability, the quote loses its urgency, its poignancy, its core reason for being. Consider the Irish immigrants fleeing the potato famine, or the Eastern European Jews escaping pogroms, finding refuge in the promise enshrined at the base of the Statue of Liberty.
The connection between economic vulnerability and the quote extends beyond mere cause and effect. It underscores the ethical responsibility of societies that have the capacity to assist those in dire need. It questions the morality of borders drawn in the sand, of policies that prioritize national interests above human suffering. Understanding this connection allows for a more nuanced perspective on immigration debates, moving beyond simplistic notions of burden and instead highlighting the potential contributions and inherent worth of those who arrive seeking a chance to contribute. The quote invites not only the impoverished but also an examination of the systems that create and perpetuate poverty, demanding a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
In summary, “give us your poor quote” is inextricably linked to the harsh realities of economic vulnerability. Recognizing this connection is essential for interpreting the true intent of the phrase and for grappling with the complex ethical and practical considerations of immigration policy. The challenge lies in translating the sentiment into tangible action, creating inclusive societies that offer genuine opportunities for economic advancement and uphold the dignity of all individuals, regardless of their financial circumstances. The quote serves as a constant reminder of this enduring obligation.
2. Social Marginalization
The invitation extended by “give us your poor quote” confronts a stark reality: social marginalization. It acknowledges not simply the economic destitution of those implored, but also the exclusion and ostracization that often accompany poverty. This marginalization acts as a relentless force, shaping destinies and limiting opportunities, a force the verse attempts to counter with its promise of acceptance.
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Denial of Civic Participation
Consider the immigrant, newly arrived, struggling with a language barrier, navigating unfamiliar bureaucratic systems. This individual is often denied effective civic participation, silenced in community meetings, unable to advocate for their needs due to systemic hurdles. “Give us your poor quote” implies a commitment to dismantling these barriers, ensuring that even the most marginalized have a voice and a stake in their new society. The promise rings hollow, however, when social structures perpetuate a silencing of voices deemed unwelcome.
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Segregation and Spatial Exclusion
Historically, and even in contemporary societies, marginalized communities are often relegated to specific geographic areas, effectively segregated from mainstream society. These areas frequently lack adequate resources, proper infrastructure, and access to quality education and healthcare. “Give us your poor quote” suggests a challenge to this spatial exclusion, implying a responsibility to integrate newcomers into the social fabric, rather than confining them to the periphery. Yet, invisible walls of prejudice and discriminatory housing practices often thwart integration.
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Cultural Othering and Stereotyping
Those deemed “poor” are frequently subject to cultural othering, portrayed as lazy, uneducated, or inherently criminal. Such stereotypes perpetuate prejudice and discrimination, hindering social mobility and creating barriers to employment and advancement. “Give us your poor quote” counters this narrative of othering, recognizing the inherent dignity and potential contributions of all individuals, regardless of their economic status or cultural background. However, deep-seated prejudices can prove resistant to change, requiring sustained efforts to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote cultural understanding.
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Lack of Access to Justice and Legal Protections
Marginalized individuals often face significant obstacles in accessing justice and securing legal protections. Language barriers, lack of resources, and distrust of legal institutions can leave them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. “Give us your poor quote” suggests a commitment to ensuring equal access to justice for all, providing legal aid and advocacy to protect the rights of the vulnerable. However, legal systems can be complex and intimidating, requiring proactive outreach and culturally sensitive services to ensure that the marginalized are afforded equal protection under the law.
These facets of social marginalization, each a brick in the wall that separates the “poor” from full participation in society, underscore the profound challenge inherent in the invitation. “Give us your poor quote” is not merely an open-door policy; it is a call to actively dismantle the structures that perpetuate inequality and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. The echoes of this call continue to resonate, demanding a commitment to social justice that extends beyond mere words.
3. Limited Opportunities
The verse, “give us your poor quote,” resonates not merely with promises of sanctuary, but confronts the debilitating reality of constricted prospects. Limited opportunities, a pervasive shadow over the lives of the impoverished, represent a formidable barrier. This invitation, therefore, becomes more than a welcome; it is a testament to the potential for advancement and transformation.
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Educational Disparities
In decaying cityscapes, where schools crumble under the weight of neglect, children inherit a legacy of curtailed prospects. Lacking resources, quality teachers, and safe learning environments, these students are systematically deprived of the educational foundation necessary for upward mobility. The “give us your poor quote” implicitly vows to confront these disparities, to offer access to the transformative power of education, thereby dismantling the cycle of poverty passed from one generation to the next. This promise often remains unfulfilled, as systemic issues persist, creating a chasm between aspiration and reality.
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Employment Barriers
A young woman, newly arrived with dreams of self-sufficiency, finds herself navigating a labyrinth of discriminatory hiring practices. A criminal record, a foreign accent, or simply the misfortune of residing in a stigmatized neighborhood becomes an insurmountable obstacle. “Give us your poor quote” suggests a commitment to eradicating these barriers, ensuring equal access to employment opportunities based on merit, not prejudice. Reality often paints a different picture, however, as biases persist, limiting access to well-paying jobs and perpetuating economic inequality.
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Healthcare Deficiencies
A chronic illness, left untreated due to lack of access to affordable healthcare, becomes a life-altering constraint. Limited opportunities arise not merely from lack of skills or resources, but also from the debilitating effects of poor health. “Give us your poor quote” ideally promises access to healthcare, recognizing that well-being is a fundamental prerequisite for participation in society. Too often, this promise remains unfulfilled, as the marginalized face a constant struggle to access basic medical care, further limiting their chances for advancement.
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Financial Exclusion
Without access to banking services, credit, or capital, the impoverished are trapped in a cycle of financial vulnerability. Unable to secure loans for education, business ventures, or even basic necessities, they remain tethered to the margins of the economy. “Give us your poor quote” inherently carries the burden of ensuring equal access to financial resources, empowering individuals to build assets and create economic opportunities. Yet, predatory lending practices and systemic biases within financial institutions often prevent the marginalized from escaping this cycle of debt and dependence.
These restricted avenues, emblematic of societal failures, underscore the true significance of the sentiment. “Give us your poor quote” is not merely an empty platitude; it is a covenant to actively redress these disparities, creating societies that truly offer opportunities for all, regardless of their origins or economic standing. The journey toward fulfillment of this promise remains arduous, demanding a concerted effort to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure that the possibility of a better life is not merely a dream, but a tangible reality.
4. Systemic Inequality
The phrase “give us your poor quote,” though etched in idealistic sentiment, becomes a haunting irony when viewed through the lens of systemic inequality. The invitation rings hollow in a world where poverty is not a random misfortune, but a carefully constructed edifice built on centuries of discriminatory practices and unequal resource allocation. The quote promises welcome, but systemic inequality ensures that for many, the path to acceptance is paved with insurmountable obstacles, undermining the very intent of the message.
Consider the historical example of redlining in American cities. For decades, communities of color were systematically denied access to mortgages and other forms of credit, trapping them in cycles of poverty and hindering their ability to accumulate wealth. This wasn’t a matter of individual prejudice, but a deliberate policy implemented by banks and supported by government agencies. The effects of redlining continue to reverberate today, contributing to vast disparities in homeownership rates and wealth accumulation. “Give us your poor quote” speaks of a nation that embraces those in need, but such policies directly contradict this ethos, actively preventing marginalized communities from achieving economic security. Similarly, discriminatory immigration laws, designed to exclude specific ethnic groups, have historically shaped who is deemed worthy of inclusion, further perpetuating systemic inequality and undermining the promise of equal opportunity.
The importance of acknowledging systemic inequality in relation to “give us your poor quote” lies in recognizing that true inclusion requires more than just an open door. It demands a dismantling of the structural barriers that prevent individuals from achieving their full potential. It necessitates a commitment to equitable policies, investments in marginalized communities, and a fundamental shift in societal attitudes. Until these systemic issues are addressed, the invitation remains a symbolic gesture, its impact diminished by the enduring realities of inequality. The task ahead involves not simply welcoming the poor, but actively working to create a world where poverty is no longer a predetermined fate.
5. Seeking Refuge
The desperate journey defines “seeking refuge.” A mother clutches her child, traversing borders under the cloak of darkness, driven by the singular imperative to escape war, persecution, or environmental catastrophe. “Give us your poor quote” stands as an aspirational beacon in this darkness, promising safe harbor, a haven from the storm. The phrase becomes intricately entwined with the act of seeking refuge, representing the hope that a nation’s founding principles will extend protection to those most vulnerable. Without the act of seeking refuge, the quote loses its visceral urgency, becoming merely a rhetorical flourish devoid of profound meaning. The quote’s promise is only given value by the needs of those who seek safety.
Consider the Syrian refugee crisis. Millions, displaced by civil war, sought refuge in neighboring countries and beyond, their lives irrevocably altered by violence and loss. The “give us your poor quote” resurfaced in debates over immigration policies, pitting humanitarian ideals against national security concerns. It highlighted the tension between the open invitation and the practical realities of accommodating large-scale displacement. The quote urged a moral reckoning. It urged consideration of human consequences of closed borders. It begged the question: Does a nation forfeit its soul when it turns its back on those desperately seeking refuge? Examining this intersection reveals not only the idealism but also the stark political and logistical hurdles inherent in translating words into action.
Ultimately, the relationship between seeking refuge and the quote underscores the inherent human right to seek safety. It calls attention to the moral imperative to provide sanctuary for those fleeing danger. However, it simultaneously exposes the complexities and challenges of implementing such a policy. The quote serves as a perpetual reminder: a society’s commitment to its foundational principles is truly measured by its willingness to embrace those seeking refuge, offering not just shelter, but also the opportunity to rebuild lives and contribute to their new homes.
6. Desperation
The weight of desperation gives the hollowed words of “give us your poor quote” an unwanted substance. It is desperation that fuels the perilous journeys across unforgiving deserts and treacherous seas, transforming the ideal into a lifeline. Families huddle in overcrowded boats, gambling their futures on the promise embedded in the verse, a promise whispered across generations. Without this undercurrent of despair, the quote remains merely an inscription on a monument, a noble sentiment detached from the harsh realities that drive human migration. The significance of desperation lies in its capacity to amplify the quote’s urgency, revealing the profound human need that underlies the invitation.
Consider the story of a farmer, his land ravaged by drought, his family facing starvation. He sells his meager possessions, clinging to the hope offered by “give us your poor quote,” embarking on a journey to a foreign land where he believes he can secure a future for his children. His actions are not driven by ambition or wanderlust, but by the gnawing fear of seeing his family perish. His desperation becomes the engine of his migration, transforming the quote from a distant promise into a tangible objective. Such stories, repeated across continents and throughout history, illustrate the profound connection between desperation and the invitation enshrined on the Statue of Liberty. The success of this promise is dependent on a collective understanding of the desperation of such farmer.
Ultimately, the relationship between desperation and the quote highlights the moral responsibility of those who extend the invitation. It challenges societies to confront the root causes of displacement and to create humane and effective responses to the needs of those driven by despair. Understanding this connection is not simply an academic exercise; it is a crucial step toward fostering empathy and crafting immigration policies that reflect the values of compassion and justice. The enduring challenge lies in translating the hope embedded in the quote into concrete actions that alleviate the desperation that compels so many to seek refuge on distant shores.
7. Resilience
Resilience, the unyielding spirit of those who have weathered unimaginable storms, breathes life into the words of “give us your poor quote.” It is the unseen force that transforms a desperate plea into a testament of human strength, a quiet defiance against the forces of adversity. The quote offers a sanctuary, but it is resilience that empowers individuals to rebuild their lives, to contribute to their new communities, and to emerge stronger despite the scars of the past.
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Overcoming Trauma and Loss
Consider a survivor of war, a refugee who has witnessed unspeakable horrors, lost loved ones, and endured unimaginable hardship. The trauma remains, a shadow that forever colors their world. Yet, within that darkness, resilience flickers, a determination to heal, to rebuild, to find meaning in the face of unimaginable loss. It is this resilience that allows them to seek therapy, to connect with support networks, and to slowly piece together a new identity, transforming from a victim into a survivor, then a force for positive change. This transformative power underscores the importance of trauma-informed care and mental health support for those who seek refuge, enabling them to harness their resilience and thrive. Without this healing, the promise of the quote withers.
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Navigating Cultural Adjustment
A young immigrant, uprooted from their homeland, faces the daunting task of adapting to a new culture, a new language, and a new set of social norms. The challenges are immense, from deciphering unfamiliar customs to confronting prejudice and discrimination. Yet, they persevere, drawing upon their inner strength to navigate this complex landscape, learning a new language, embracing new traditions, and forging new connections. Their resilience is a testament to the adaptability of the human spirit, a refusal to be defined by their circumstances. This highlights the need for culturally sensitive programs and resources that support newcomers in their journey of integration, empowering them to embrace both their heritage and their new identity.
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Building New Communities
Displaced communities often carry with them the seeds of their culture, traditions, and values, transplanting them to their new homes. Despite facing challenges, they come together, creating mutual aid societies, cultural centers, and religious institutions, spaces where they can connect, support one another, and preserve their heritage. This collective resilience is a powerful force, transforming desolate neighborhoods into vibrant cultural enclaves, enriching the social fabric of their new societies. This underscores the importance of fostering community engagement and supporting grassroots initiatives that empower marginalized groups to build strong and resilient communities.
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Creating Economic Opportunity
An entrepreneur, denied access to traditional forms of capital, refuses to be deterred. They leverage their skills, their ingenuity, and their unwavering determination to create their own opportunities. They start small businesses, catering to the needs of their communities, providing employment for others, and defying the limitations imposed upon them. This economic resilience is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity, transforming scarcity into abundance, and contributing to the economic vitality of their new homes. This highlights the need for micro-lending programs, mentorship initiatives, and other resources that support aspiring entrepreneurs from marginalized communities, empowering them to become self-sufficient and to create economic opportunities for others.
These facets of resilience, woven into the fabric of the immigrant experience, reveal the true power of “give us your poor quote.” It is not merely an invitation, but a recognition of the indomitable human spirit, a celebration of the capacity to overcome adversity, and a call to create societies that embrace and empower those who have shown the greatest resilience. The echoes of this call resonate through generations, inspiring us to build a world where the promise of opportunity is not a hollow dream, but a tangible reality for all.
8. Human Dignity
Human dignity, an inherent and inalienable right, forms the very bedrock upon which the sentiment expressed in “give us your poor quote” rests. It transcends economic status, origin, or circumstance, recognizing the intrinsic worth of every individual, a worth that cannot be diminished by poverty, hardship, or displacement. The verse, therefore, extends beyond a mere invitation; it is an affirmation of this fundamental principle, a recognition of the inherent value in those seeking refuge and opportunity.
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The Right to Basic Needs
A family, driven from their home by famine, arrives at a border, their bodies weakened by hunger and thirst. Denying them access to food, water, and shelter is not merely a practical failure; it is a profound violation of their human dignity. Every human deserves these basic needs. “Give us your poor quote” implies a commitment to ensuring that those who seek sanctuary are afforded the basic necessities of life, recognizing that these are not privileges to be granted, but fundamental rights to be upheld. When these needs are ignored, it diminishes their humanity in the eyes of society and their own eyes.
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The Right to Respect and Non-Discrimination
Consider a refugee, subjected to xenophobic slurs and discriminatory treatment, marginalized and excluded from mainstream society. Such actions strip them of their dignity, reducing them to stereotypes and denying their individuality. “Give us your poor quote” fundamentally opposes such dehumanization, asserting that all individuals are entitled to respect and equal treatment, regardless of their origin, religion, or economic status. Without the respect there is no understanding.
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The Right to Self-Determination and Agency
Imagine an asylum seeker, stripped of their agency, subjected to arbitrary detention, and denied the opportunity to participate in decisions that affect their lives. Such treatment undermines their human dignity, treating them as objects rather than as autonomous beings. “Give us your poor quote” suggests a commitment to empowering those who seek refuge, enabling them to exercise their self-determination, to make choices about their future, and to contribute to the societies that welcome them. Denying one’s right to make choices is a cruel blow to the self.
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The Right to Justice and Legal Protection
A migrant worker, exploited by unscrupulous employers, denied fair wages, and subjected to unsafe working conditions. Such treatment is a blatant disregard for their human dignity, reducing them to mere instruments of labor. “Give us your poor quote” necessitates a commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, have access to justice, legal protection, and redress for grievances. Without protection, we become mere pawns.
These four pillars – basic needs, respect, self-determination, and justice – serve as cornerstones in the edifice of human dignity, each essential to upholding the promise inherent in “give us your poor quote.” These are examples of basic rights being denied to many. To see the true meaning of these words is to fully recognize these rights. By upholding these rights, societies honor not only the individuals who seek refuge but also their own foundational values, creating communities that are more just, equitable, and humane.
Frequently Asked Questions
These inquiries address common misinterpretations and nuanced aspects surrounding the famous sentiment, delving into its historical context and lasting implications.
Question 1: Does “Give Us Your Poor Quote” imply a nation should accept unlimited immigration, regardless of its capacity to provide resources and services?
The implication of boundless capacity is an oversimplification. The phrase encapsulates a moral imperative to welcome those in need. It demands a delicate balance between humanitarian ideals and practical realities. Historical records detail waves of immigration facing resistance and assimilation challenges, emphasizing the ongoing need for responsible resource management and thoughtful policy implementation. A nations commitment is tested by its ability to find this balance.
Question 2: Is “Give Us Your Poor Quote” solely a historical artifact, or does it retain relevance in contemporary society?
Its relevance is undiminished. The global landscape is fraught with conflict, poverty, and environmental displacement, forcing countless individuals to seek refuge in foreign lands. The quote serves as a perennial reminder of the enduring human need for sanctuary and the moral obligation of nations to offer aid and protection. Contemporary debates about immigration policies directly engage with the principles embodied in the verse, proving its continued influence on public discourse.
Question 3: Does “Give Us Your Poor Quote” negate the importance of border security and national interests?
National security concerns are real. Border integrity holds significant importance. The sentiment, however, challenges the prioritization of national interests above fundamental human rights. A balanced approach necessitates robust security measures coupled with humane immigration policies, ensuring both the safety of the nation and the protection of vulnerable populations. History teaches that walls alone cannot solve humanitarian crises.
Question 4: Does “Give Us Your Poor Quote” ignore the potential economic strain that immigration can place on host countries?
Economic considerations are legitimate. Immigration can present short-term challenges to social services and infrastructure. Historical analysis and modern economic studies often reveal the long-term benefits of immigration, including increased labor force participation, innovation, and economic growth. The verse is not blind to potential strains, it asks a just distribution of the burden. Addressing these concerns requires proactive policies that integrate newcomers into the workforce and ensure equitable access to resources.
Question 5: Is “Give Us Your Poor Quote” an accurate representation of historical US immigration policies?
The phrase speaks of a nation’s ideals. It doesn’t paint a wholly accurate depiction of past policies, which were marred by discriminatory practices and exclusionary measures. Acknowledging these historical injustices is crucial to understanding the complexities of US immigration history and to working towards a more inclusive and equitable future. The nations promise is more aspirational than historical fact.
Question 6: Does “Give Us Your Poor Quote” diminish the importance of self-reliance and personal responsibility for immigrants?
Self-reliance is a virtue and personal responsibility are not negated. The verse recognizes that some individuals require assistance to overcome systemic barriers and rebuild their lives. The invitation is not an endorsement of dependency, but an opportunity for those seeking refuge to utilize their talents and contribute to their new societies. It is this hand that enables the seeking individual to plant firm roots.
The sentiment encapsulated in “Give Us Your Poor Quote” carries profound weight. Understanding this weight is to understand that human dignity has no price.
Further exploration of practical implications can be found in the following section.
Enduring Lessons from the Lamp
The inscription beneath the Statue of Liberty, often encapsulated by the keyword phrase, is not merely a welcome mat for immigrants; it is a rigorous examination of societal conscience. These guidelines, illuminated by the statue’s torch, demand constant reflection and decisive action.
Tip 1: Acknowledge Shared Humanity: History bears witness to the consequences of dehumanization. The sentiment demands acknowledgment of inherent worth, regardless of circumstance. The Jewish refugees aboard the St. Louis, turned away from shores promising sanctuary, serve as a harrowing reminder of what happens when compassion yields to fear and prejudice. To deny the promise of the quote is to deny human dignity.
Tip 2: Dismantle Systemic Barriers: The quote is not fulfilled by empty gestures. It demands dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality. Redlining, discriminatory housing practices, and unequal access to education all stand as stark contradictions to the promise of opportunity. Only through proactive policy changes can true inclusion be achieved.
Tip 3: Embrace Inclusive Narratives: Dominant narratives often marginalize the experiences of the impoverished and displaced, portraying them as burdens or threats. “Give us your poor quote” compels amplification of diverse voices, challenging stereotypes and fostering empathy. The story of a refugee entrepreneur, creating jobs and enriching their community, offers a powerful counterpoint to fear-mongering narratives.
Tip 4: Invest in Integration, Not Isolation: Segregation breeds distrust and division. “Give us your poor quote” requires investment in programs that promote integration, language acquisition, and cultural understanding. Community centers, mentorship initiatives, and cross-cultural dialogues serve as bridges, fostering connection and building a more cohesive society. Neglect of immigrants is not an option.
Tip 5: Uphold the Rule of Law: Justice is the cornerstone of a just society. “Give us your poor quote” necessitates equal protection under the law, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, have access to legal representation and redress for grievances. Exploitation of vulnerable populations is a betrayal of the principles enshrined in the verse.
Tip 6: Practice Compassionate Pragmatism: Idealism alone is insufficient. “Give us your poor quote” demands a balanced approach, acknowledging both the humanitarian imperative and the practical challenges of immigration. Responsible resource allocation, effective border management, and thoughtful policy implementation are essential to ensuring that the promise of opportunity can be sustained. This requires clearheaded leadership.
These lessons, gleaned from the enduring message beneath the lamp, serve as guideposts on a complex journey. Heeding these guidelines is not simply an act of charity; it is an investment in a more just, equitable, and prosperous future for all. To uphold human dignity is to benefit all of humankind.
The subsequent section will offer a concise summary.
An Enduring Echo
The exploration has charted the depths and contours of a phrase now etched in collective memory: “give us your poor quote.” From its adjectival essence characterizing the vulnerable, through the harrowing realities of marginalization and the beacon of resilience, the analysis has underscored the sentiment’s multifaceted implications. Economic hardship, the desperation of those seeking refuge, and the pervasive shadow of systemic inequality were illuminated. Ultimately, the enduring power rests on the recognition of inherent human dignitya right that transcends borders and circumstance.
The lamp still burns, though winds of cynicism may buffet its flame. The promise, while imperfectly realized throughout history, remains a potent symbol of aspiration. It calls for more than mere words; it demands action. Each generation must grapple with the complexities of translating ideals into tangible reality, ensuring that those seeking sanctuary find not just shelter, but also the opportunity to build lives of dignity and purpose. The story is far from finished, and the next chapter depends on a renewed commitment to the values enshrined at the base of the statue: justice, compassion, and the unyielding belief in the inherent worth of every human being. Let the future record show that we rose to the challenge.
