Liberation

Liberation, Holocaust memorial in Jersey City
Description: Welcome to Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey! Today, we will be exploring the bronze Holocaust memorial known as Liberation. Liberation is a stunning sculpture created by Nathan Rapoport, located in Liberty State Park in Hudson County. The monument was officially dedicated on May 30, 1985 and portrays an American soldier carrying the body of a Holocaust survivor out of a Nazi concentration camp. This powerful image serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and the bravery of those who fought against it. The monument was commissioned by the State of New Jersey and sponsored by a coalition of veterans organizations. It was strategically placed so that it would face the Statue of Liberty and form a "topological triad" that includes Liberation, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island. This placement was intentional, as it recognizes the Holocaust as a "counterpoint" to American democratic and egalitarian ideals. Standing at fifteen feet tall and weighing approximately two tons, Liberation is a breathtaking sight to behold. It recalls America's self-perception in terms of the role of the U.S. military in the liberation of the camps and as a refuge for many survivors. The Liberty Park Monument Committee, formed by New Jersey Governor Thomas H. Kean, was tasked with raising funds for a monument "to honor American servicemen as liberators of oppressed peoples." Liberation serves as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought against oppression and genocide. As you visit this monument, take a moment to reflect on the importance of remembering the past and working towards a better future. The Holocaust may be a dark chapter in history, but monuments like Liberation serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Thank you for joining me on this tour of Liberation in Liberty State Park. I hope you found it informative and thought-provoking.
Location: New Jersey
Inception: 1985
Creator: Nathan Rapoport
Sources: Wikimedia, OpenStreetMap