Is the Statute of Liberty Jewish?

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of America. Few public objects portray more powerfully American ideals of freedom. Yet is it possible that the Statue of Liberty is most appropriately considered a Jewish statue? How might we define a work of art as Jewish? Is it determined by the identity of the face depicted or cultural identity of the sculptor? Or by the sponsor and champion who brought it into the public space?

While the face of the statue is not of a Jew nor was the sculptor Jewish, many attributes of the statue reflect a deep Jewish connection, specifically the imprint on the statue made by the Jewish American poet, Emma Lazarus. The message beckons the world to “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” 

Significantly, Lazarus based this poem on ideas that are distinctly Jewish, words drawn straight from the Torah. This lecture will explore the efforts of Emma Lazarus as philanthropist, social reformer and poet, specifically her work to bring the Statue of Liberty into public display and through her poetic inscription installed at its pedestal that has provided its unique cultural significance. 

Cliff Wilcox, PhD, is a historian of American intellectual and cultural history. His courses concentrate on culture, ideas, education, and religion in American society. He holds a doctorate in American intellectual history from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

The Fifty and Better (FAB) program was designed for people 50 and older seeking intellectual stimulation through university level courses (without the pressure of grades) for the sake of learning and social engagement.

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