Alice Piper Unveiling

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The recently finished statue of Alice Piper, created by Big Statues, was unveiled at Big Pine Schools last week.

Alice Piper was a Native American girl who wanted the opportunity to attend public school, rather than her lower-grade local education group. This was a desire echoed by many of her peers.

She was denied the privilege because of her race.  At the young age of 15, Alice Piper took it upon herself to sue the school district for causing the children to go to a separate school.

The State Supreme Court ruled that the law was in violation of the Dawes Act, giving her equal rights as a U.S. Citizen.  As a result, Alice Piper and all other children that were previously viewed as inferior were allowed to attend Big Pine Public School.  Alice Piper and the district played a large role in the constitutional battle over Native Americans’ rights.

This last week, the finished Alice Piper statue was unveiled with a cultural dedication.  Attending the ceremony were dignitaries from around the county, state, and local Native American tribes.  The dedication consisted of various performances by the students currently attending the school.

“On the day of the unveiling what struck me the most was the incredible outpouring of pride and sense of ‘it’s about time,’ for the recognition of Alice Piper and the Native American role in the desegregation of schools in our country.  Tribal members locally, and from all over the state came together to celebrate this day. It was humbling and uplifting at the same time,” said Superintendent Pamela Jones.

Matt Glenn, lead artist at Big Statues, felt privileged to be a part of this great project.  He is happy to hear the great response the statue has received so far.

Tags:

Alice Piper, bronze, sculpture, statue, Unveil

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