On March 17, 2025, controversy erupted when French politician Raphaël Glucksmann called for the return of the iconic Statue of Liberty to France, arguing it no longer embodies American values.
The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France to the United States on the centennial of its independence back in 1886, has long been regarded as a symbol of freedom and democracy. Glucksmann made his remarks during a convention for his leftist political movement, Place Publique, asserting, "We’re going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants, to the Americans who fired researchers for demanding scientific freedom: 'Give us back the Statue of Liberty.' We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So it will be just fine here at home," according to Le Monde.
His comments were received amid larger global discussions about American governance and values, particularly under the Trump administration. Glucksmann, who has vocally criticized Trump’s policies and their impact on international relations, especially concerning Ukraine, suggested the U.S.'s present course is not reflective of the values for which the statue stands.
The White House swiftly rebuked Glucksmann's request. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked during the daily briefing: "My advice to the unnamed low-level French politician would be to remind them. It’s only because of the United States of Americathat the French are not speaking German right now, so they should be very grateful to our great country," leading to audible gasps from reporters due to the weighty World War II reference.
This incident is indicative of growing tensions surrounding U.S.-France relations, particularly with rising nationalist sentiments and differing political ideologies. According to surveys conducted by Canadian market researcher Leger, 59 percent of Canadians indicated they are now less likely to visit the U.S. due to these rising tensions, and two-thirds of respondents have minimized their purchases of American goods.
Over the weekend preceding Leavitt's comments, municipal authorities across Ontario, including Mississauga, made headlines by removing American flags from local government buildings and sports arenas. Mayor Carolyn Parrish supported this move by stating, "At the request of many, the City has begun to remove all American flags from sports arenas and locations along Lake Ontario, including the pier at Snug Harbour. Oversized Canadian flags will now greet visitors at City Hall," illustrating the growing distaste for the U.S. among some Canadians.
American engagements abroad have also experienced backlash. For example, during a classical concert at the Kennedy Center on March 16, vice president JD Vance and his wife, Usha, were met with boos as they entered the venue. This negative reception reflects the increasing polarization and public dissent toward U.S. leadership.
Glucksmann, as part of his wider criticisms, also condemned the Trump administration's decision to fire government employees as part of the Department of Government Efficiency's cost-cutting efforts, stating: "The second thing we’re going to say to the Americans is: 'If you want to fire your best researchers, if you want to fire all the people who, through their freedom and sense of innovation, their taste for doubt and research, have made your country the world’s leading power, then we’re going to welcome them.'" His remarks were framed within the broader narrative of trumpeting values of democracy and progress over isolationism and authoritarianism.
Historical significance adds weight to Glucksmann's plea. Since its assembly on October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty has served as the first sight for millions of immigrants arriving via Ellis Island, representing hope and opportunity. The monument stands proudly at 305 feet tall, making it the third-tallest monument in the United States. It is considered one of the most photographed monuments globally, drawing millions of visitors each year.
Despite Glucksmann’s call for the statue's return, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has made it clear: the Statue of Liberty remains the property of the U.S. government. Leavitt reiterated this stance, declaring unequivocally during her briefing: "Absolutely not; the Statue of Liberty is not going anywhere."
The dialogue surrounding the Statue of Liberty is just one manifestation of the underlying tensions and geopolitical shifts influencing not only American and French relations but also broader international dynamics. The historical ties between France and the United States, which once celebrated shared values of liberty, democracy, and freedom, are now challenged by differing political values and rising populism.
With conversations about nationalism and globalism at the forefront, the debate around a symbol of freedom like the Statue of Liberty encapsulates more than just the request for its physical return; it reflects core disagreements on the future of international relations and the spirit of democracy itself.
Moving forward, the U.S. and France will likely continue to grapple with these tensions, as symbols of their intertwined histories are used as tools for critique and dialogue on the world stage.
