By Jordan Jarrett
Howard University News Service
WASHINGTON— On Oct. 24, a new political statue was installed at the National Mall in front of the Capitol building, attracting attention from D.C. residents and visitors. Reactions have been mixed, with some finding it humorous and others appreciating its historical documentation.
The bronze statue titled “Resolute Desk” shows a replica of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s desk with a poop emoji on top, symbolizing the Jan. 6 Capitol riot in 2021.
The artist is not listed, but Julia Jimenez-Pyzik of Civic Crafted LLC filed the permit for the temporary installation with the National Park Service.
According to the plaque on the statue, it is meant to “honor the brave men and women who broke into the United States Capitol on January 6.”
The permit for the statue only lasted until Oct. 31, but it remains at the National Mall. No updates have been provided on when it will be removed.
Amy Gelbach, a teacher from Richmond, Virginia, said anyone offended by the statue should view it with humor instead.
“I think the real thing to be upset by is that the event happened, not that someone is depicting it in a sculpture,” Gelbach said. “There is a real incident to compare this to, which is more distressing.”
She was amongst many visitors who stopped to photograph and reflect on the statue.
Owen Hughes, a student at George Mason University, also found the statue comical.
“At first, I didn’t realize the message behind it, I just thought it was funny,” Hughes said.
The statue was placed a week before the historical presidential election between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
While many visitors expressed little concern about the statue causing political controversy during election season, Hughes acknowledged that it might stir up some issues.
“It could definitely cause a few issues, but I think it’s more about people getting angry over a joke than anything else,” Hughes said.
Kristen Lancaster, who is visiting from Rhode Island, said she understands why satire can be helpful, but it is still a devastating day to depict.
“The sarcasm and the wit behind it is funny, but this day still has a huge impact on what’s going on with our country today,” said Lancaster.
Like Gelbach and Hughes, English teacher Grace Vivirito found the statue amusing.
“I think that if people get angry about art, that says more about their morality and beliefs,” Vivirito said.
Troels Vermehren, a Denmark resident visiting D.C. for the election, noted the political divide among voters when considering the statue.
“I think the division is already there, but it’s good to highlight these things and learn from history,” Vermehren said.
Some residents are pleased that those involved in the Capitol riot are being represented in this way.
Alberto, a D.C. resident who did not want to share his last name, said the plaque “is a nice way of showing how things happened that day, and I hope it doesn’t happen again.”
“It is very important to always learn from history, and I think this is one way to do it,” added Vermehren, reflecting on the statue’s role as a historical marker.
Jordan Jarrett is a HU News Service reporter.
