In the wake of the tragic death of Corey Ruiz at the hands of the Madison Police Department, a powerful symbol of solidarity has emerged at his vigil. A wooden statue, shaped like a raised fist, stands tall at the intersection of Williamson and South Baldwin streets, serving as a poignant reminder of the community's collective grief and demand for justice.
This statue, originally from Minneapolis, holds deep significance. Created by artist and activist jordan jamal powell karis, it embodies the spirit of unity and the belief that we all belong. Its journey to Madison is a testament to the interconnectedness of communities fighting for racial justice.
The Power of Solidarity
The statue's presence on Willy Street is more than just a visual representation; it's a physical manifestation of the community's strength and resilience. By closing the street and creating a gathering place, the intersection becomes a sacred space for healing and activism. It's a place where flowers are laid, tributes are paid, and accountability is demanded.
ACAB Underground School, a local organizing group, recognizes the statue's importance, stating that solidarity is an active verb, not just words on a page. It requires action, sacrifice, and a shared belief in a better world. This statue serves as a constant reminder of that principle.
A Symbol of Resistance
powell karis' creation is not just a work of art; it's a tool for resistance. He built the first fist statue in 2020, driven by the need to heal his community after the lynching of George Floyd. Since then, he's constructed multiple statues, each with a unique purpose.
The original statue, now in storage, was a response to the raw emotions of that time. It provided a space for people to gather and process their grief. The subsequent statues, including the one in Madison, were designed to travel, carrying the message of solidarity and resistance to different communities in need.
Holding Space for Healing
The statue's height, over 11 feet, is intentional. It's a physical occupation of space, reclaiming what is usually a mechanized and objective roadway. In doing so, it creates a safe haven for the community to grieve, reflect, and plan for the future.
powell karis noticed the parallels between the responses to the murders of George Floyd and Corey Ruiz. Both communities took to the streets, claiming space and demanding justice. The barricades on Williamson Street evoked a similar image of resistance and unity.
A Durable Symbol
This particular fist statue has endured much. It has been struck by vehicles and caught bullets, yet it stands tall. Its resilience mirrors the strength of the communities it represents. powell karis believes that the statue's presence makes it harder for authorities to displace the site of mourning, giving the community more time to heal and decide on the next steps.
A Community-Centric Approach
powell karis emphasizes that the statue is not about the object itself but about the people it serves. It's a tool to support the community's process of healing and fighting for a safer life for Black individuals. The statue's potential absence is not a concern; what matters is the community's needs - a place to gather, grieve, and demand justice.
Conclusion
The raised fist statue at Corey Ruiz's vigil is more than just a memorial; it's a symbol of the community's power and resilience. It represents the collective effort to create change and ensure that tragedies like Ruiz's death are not forgotten or repeated. This statue, and others like it, stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of solidarity and the ongoing fight for racial justice.
