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Mount Rushmore: Graffiti or Monument?

Mount Rushmore National Monument is situated in South Dakota's Black Hills. This impressive carving contains the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Many argue that Mount Rushmore is necessary, as it is an important tribute to individuals who have contributed to "the founding, expansion, preservation, and unification of the United States" (Borglum). In addition, Mount Rushmore symbolizes freedom and democracy while also representing both the past and the future. 









However, the history of the monument has led to controversy over the years. It was built on stolen land, taken from the Lakota Sioux, leading to many present-day protests that bring attention to the history of Indigenous displacement. In 2020, Indigenous groups protested at Donald Trump's speech at the Mount Rushmore, chanting "Land Back" as a passionate expression of their demands. Many asserted that the monument is like graffiti on their cherished land.










The stolen land isn't the only controversy surrounding the history of Mount Rushmore. The monument was sculpted by Gutzon Borglum, a man with an association with the Ku Klux Klan (KKK). The KKK not only impacted the black community but also used tactics of intimidation and violence to drive away Indigenous tribes. 

Finally, the monument is carved in an effort to memorialize 4 influential presidents of the past. They are portrayed in honorable and powerful ways, indicating that they were respected figures who left a lasting legacy of influence and impact. However, people are now uncovering the many controversial aspects of each man's history, arguing that they should not be commemorated.

In my opinion, the landmark should be handed back over to the people who inhabited the area many years ago because it is essential to acknowledge that the land was taken from the Lakota Sioux without their consent. Returning this sacred land to its rightful owners would be a powerful step toward reconciliation and justice, as it recognizes the historical injustices faced by Indigenous people. At the end of the day, it is their right to determine the future of the monument.

Comments

  1. Arya ShahSeptember 9, 2023 at 9:37 PM

    This post was very informative. I had no idea that the monument was constructed by a man with an association with the KKK. Reading this has made me much more aware to question the things that are often glorified.

    ReplyDelete
  2. HemnaSeptember 10, 2023 at 12:00 PM

    I was aware of the controversy behind this monument like the protests but had no idea about its ties to the KKK. I also wish the landmark could be given back to the Lakota Sioux and people would be more understanding of why this is important. Pushing towards progress means making difficult choices even if that means giving up things that are treasured.

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