In a recent clash between French politician Raphaël Glucksmann and the White House, the symbolic significance of the Statue of Liberty has reignited debates over national values and international relations. Glucksmann, a member of the European Parliament and co-president of the left-wing party Place Publique, made headlines by calling for the United States to return the iconic statue to France. His remarks came during a rally on March 16, 2025, where he asserted, "Give us back the Statue of Liberty. We’re going to say to the Americans who have chosen to side with the tyrants... Apparently, you despise her.”
The Statue of Liberty, which represents Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty, was bestowed upon the United States by France in the late 19th century as a symbol of friendship, commemorating the centennial of America’s Declaration of Independence. In his address, Glucksmann framed his request as a wake-up call to what he described as the current administration's departure from the values it was founded on.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt quickly dismissed Glucksmann's suggestion, stating emphatically, "Absolutely not," regarding the statue’s return. She pointedly reminded him, "It’s only because of the United States of America that the French are not speaking German right now," referencing the sacrifices made by American soldiers during World War II.
Glucksmann's call for the statue's return was not merely a statement of frustration; it was a critique of policies under President Donald Trump, whom he accused of abandoning the principles of democracy and liberty. He noted that if the free world no longer interests the U.S. government, then European nations would take up the mantle. "No one, of course, will come and steal the Statue of Liberty. The statue is yours. But what it embodies belongs to everyone," he said on social media.
The controversy brews against the backdrop of historical ties—highlighting the importance of the Statue of Liberty as a pivotal landmark in New York Harbor since its unveiling in 1886. It has served as a beacon of hope for millions of immigrants arriving in search of a better life, its message immortalized in Emma Lazarus’s poem, "The New Colossus,” which reads, "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." Glucksmann invoked these sentiments in light of policy actions that have sparked division and concern within the U.S. and abroad.
With the backdrop of heightened tensions around international relations, Glucksmann’s comments also reflected a growing frustration among European leaders regarding the U.S.'s foreign policies, particularly its handling of issues like the war in Ukraine. “If you want to fire your best researchers... we’re going to welcome them,” Glucksmann argued, implying that innovation and intellectual freedom were being stifled under the current U.S. administration.
Despite Glucksmann's initial reception of applause from his supporters, the backlash from the U.S. government has been swift. The White House’s response emphasized not only gratitude for the assistance rendered by the U.S. in World Wars I and II but also a scolding tone towards Glucksmann for daring to suggest returning a gift that signifies the very foundation of U.S.-France relations.
As the debate continues, questions rise: Is it appropriate for one country to request the return of a gift that symbolizes historical friendship? What does it say about contemporary values when such gestures become subjects of contention?
Ultimately, as Glucksmann stated, while the statue remains a physical object situated on American soil, the ideas and ideals it represents are universal and transcend borders. The statue’s original message of liberty and freedom might need reevaluation in today's political climate.
As the United Nations recently clarified, the Statue of Liberty is indeed the property of the United States government, reaffirming its status as a permanent fixture in American culture. However, in light of Glucksmann’s comments and the endearing power of Lady Liberty, the world watches closely as both nations navigate a future shaped heavily by past alliances, modern disagreements, and a shared dream of freedom and democracy.
