Controversy Surrounds New MLK Statue

Story by Serenity Bussey. Photo courtesy of Aldian News. 

Shown above is the 20-foot tall, 40-foot wide statue “The Embrace,” which is a representation of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King’s love for one another. It is meant to resemble the picture on the right, which was taken in 1964, the same day Dr. King was announced as the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. While many people loved the statue and what it stands for, the creator, Hank Willis Thomas, is also receiving backlash concerning his work of art. 

Seneca Scott, cousin of Correta Scott King, told CNN the statue was insulting to his family. Many people also have said that if you look at it from a certain angle, the statue resembles a not-kid-friendly phallic symbol. The artist combats these allegations by saying he can't control what people see, and that the people of Boston wanted this statue, so he did his best to fulfill their wish.

Historical landmarks have huge impacts on their communities. This particular landmark is supposed to symbolize bringing people together, through both good and bad times. Whether people see this statue in a negative or positive light, it’s important to realize the message behind it. People should look at this statute and see the love that was shared between the Kings, as that was the author’s purpose for its creation.

Serenity Bussey is an 8th grade student at Friendship Woodridge International School.