A bronze statue, mockingly commemorating those who stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, was unveiled in front of the Capitol building on Thursday morning. The unusual installation, which features a swirly poop sitting on a desk with California Rep. Nancy Pelosi’s name, was placed outside the Capitol as a biting critique of the infamous riot that occurred during the certification of Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential win.
Beneath the statue, an inscription reads: “This memorial honors the brave men and women who broke into the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021, to loot, urinate and defecate throughout those hallowed halls in order to overturn an election.” The sarcastic message also references former President Donald Trump, noting his praise for the rioters as “unbelievable patriots” and “warriors.” This statue, the text claims, stands as a “testament to their daring sacrifice and lasting legacy.”
Background of the January 6 Capitol Riot
The January 6 riot remains a dark chapter in U.S. history, with hundreds of rioters storming the Capitol as lawmakers gathered to certify the 2020 presidential election results. Some rioters even targeted Nancy Pelosi’s office, with one individual accused of defecating on her desk. As the chaos unfolded, Trump urged his supporters via social media to pressure then-Vice President Mike Pence to overturn the election results, despite no legal basis for doing so. Trump continues to deny the legitimacy of Biden’s election.
Permit for Satirical Installation and Future Plans
While the statue does not explicitly name its creator, NBC News revealed that a public gathering permit issued by the National Park Service lists Julia Jimenez-Pyzik of Civic Crafted LLC as the applicant. The installation, named “The Resolute Desk,” will remain in place until October 31, with a security guard assigned to monitor it.
The permit also mentions a second installation scheduled to be revealed at Freedom Plaza on October 28. This upcoming monument will feature a Tiki Torch held by a hand emerging from a stone base, continuing the sarcastic tone of the Capitol installation. The monument is positioned between the Capitol and the White House, symbolizing a pointed critique of the events surrounding January 6.