A new bronze installation has sparked conversations in Washington, D.C., as it provocatively commemorates the individuals involved in the January 6 insurrection. This temporary art piece, which features a pile of what resembles feces adorned with a swirl akin to the “poop” emoji, is placed on a desk labeled with Nancy Pelosi’s name, directly across from the U.S. Capitol.
The plaque accompanying the statue reads, “This memorial honors the brave men and women who broke into the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021, to loot, urinate, and defecate throughout those hallowed halls in order to overturn an election.”
It further comments on President Trump’s portrayal of these individuals as “unbelievable patriots” and “warriors,” stating, “This monument stands as a testament to their daring sacrifice and lasting legacy.”
While the artist behind this controversial installation is not explicitly named, reports from the Washington Post reveal that the National Park Service granted approval for installation by Julia Jimenez-Pyzik of Civic Crafted LLC, allowing the piece to remain on the National Mall until October 30. The Park Service clarified that when issuing permits, it does not assess the content of the displayed messages, emphasizing that the National Mall serves as a vital forum for expressing constitutional rights.
In the permit obtained by NBC News, Civic Crafted LLC describes the desk as “representing the heart of democracy, where decisions are made, voices are heard, and the future is shaped.” They assert that the desk symbolizes the resilience of democratic principles against the actions of the rioters: “When rioters broke in to destroy these ideals, this desk stands firm, so too must the principles of equality, justice, and freedom that it represents.” The installation has been dubbed The Resolute Desk.
Reactions on social media have been polarized, with some users calling it “tasteless” and “a total embarrassment,” while others found it “awesome.” One comment humorously noted, “Welcome to America, where a bronze poop statue honoring the people who tried to break our democracy currently stands on the National Mall.”
Looking ahead, NBC News reports that another provocative statue—a hand emerging from a stone base holding a tiki torch—is set to be installed next week between the Capitol and the White House.
