A California protester’s arrest has made headlines after images of her being handcuffed as Lady Liberty went viral. The woman explained that her choice of costume was symbolic because the statue represents freedom. She claims she spent six hours detained following the arrest.
Multiple No Kings protests occurred over the weekend, with one taking place in downtown Los Angeles, California. The allegedly peaceful protest ended in handcuffs after protesters refused to disperse when ordered to. The incident took place at the Metropolitan Detention Center on March 28, where the protestor had her photo taken as she walked away in handcuffs. The video she posted about the arrest has received over 500,000 views with thousands of likes and comments.
In the video, she claims this was her fourth arrest for protesting. Her account of the incident is that “members of the LAPD said it was the highlight of their day to arrest Lady Liberty, completely overlooking that they proved the point of the costume.” However, the reason behind the costume is its symbolism. The California woman describes Lady Liberty as a symbol of hope and freedom, specifically for immigrants.
As a result, she believes that “the American dream has been a lie.” The California woman argues that history has shown people fighting for these freedoms and equality. These freedoms are something she feels are lost, stating, “We have seen so much of that progress diminished.” She claims there are times when “democracy feels dead” and that only white billionaires have these freedoms. She explains this is why she chose to dress as Lady Liberty. Her main demand during the protest is a call for the immigrants being detained to be released. To her, “being arrested in that costume is symbolic of a loss of freedom.”
California Protestor’s Arrest Called Iconic
Many applaud her for the arrest and even call her “iconic.” Some have urged her to “FRAME THAT PICTURE GIRL.” Others believe the California protestor will go down in history, saying, “You are a [expletive] LEGEND for that, that photo is going to be in history books one day.” One describes her arrest photo as “the greatest photo taken in the modern age.” Many understand the symbolism and applaud the power behind it. One says, “JUST saw that photo and was like [expletive] that’s a statement.” Another commenter believes, “That photo is an incredible depiction of the world we live in.”
This video is getting attention for the symbolism of Lady Liberty in handcuffs. The statue has stood for the American dream and as a representation of freedom. The imagery of her being arrested creates a powerful statement. A follow-up video shows her commenting on the photo’s attention, which she describes with amusement and pride.
The California protester stands by her arrest. Additionally, she promises more insight to come into what was said during the arrest.
