Check Point on Display

Reminiscent of a weathered boat fragment stands sentinel in Miami's Mayor's Office, transformed into art that speaks volumes about the immigrant experience. "Check Point," a thought-provoking sculpture, uses the very vessel that carried hope across dangerous waters to frame a conversation about who is welcomed and who is turned away.

The artwork features what appears to be part of a refugee boat, painted with the American flag's stars and stripes. Draped with caution tape, it's paired with a sign that reads "ENTER - BIENVENIDOS A MIAMI" before delivering its pointed message: "GIVE US YOUR TIRED, YOUR POOR, YOUR HUDDLED MASSES YEARNING TO BREATHE FREE. THE WRETCHED REFUSE OF YOUR TEEMING SHORE. SEND THESE, THE HOMELESS, TEMPEST TOST TO US. WE LIFT OUR LAMP BESIDE THE GOLDEN DOOR."

The use of Emma Lazarus's famous words from the Statue of Liberty creates a deliberate tension—these promises of sanctuary juxtaposed with the harsh reality symbolized by the barrier tape. In Miami, a city built by waves of immigrants and refugees, particularly from Cuba and Haiti, this piece resonates deeply with the community's own history.

By displaying "Check Point" we acknowledge the complex relationship between American ideals and immigration policy, inviting viewers to reflect on how we treat those seeking refuge on our shores.