
‘Give us back the Statue of Liberty,’ French politician tells U.S.
Global News
The statue, gifted to the U.S. on the 100th anniversary of its independence, has long been a defining feature of the New York City skyline and an emblem of the free world.
A French politician says the United States should return New York City’s iconic Statue of Liberty, which was gifted by France 138 years ago.
The statue, which was given to the U.S. on the 100th anniversary of its independence, has long been a defining feature of the New York City skyline and an emblem of the free world.
At a party convention for the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, Raphael Glucksmann, a member of European Parliament, told his colleagues that America should return the gift as the country no longer embodies or protects the values of democracy and freedom.
“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,” he said, according to media reports.
“We gave it to you as a gift, but apparently you despise it. So it will be just fine here at home.”
His comments come amid a flurry of protests against the Trump administration both domestically and from the international community.
In Canada, American flags flown outside government buildings, schools and sports arenas are being taken down.
Over the weekend, flags flying in Mississauga, Ont., were removed following Mayor Carolyn Parrish’s approval.