Statues must never be defaced for a variety of compelling reasons. Firstly, they serve as essential historical and cultural artifacts, offering a window into our past and the figures who shaped it. Defacing statues erases a part of our collective history, making it harder for future generations to understand and learn from it. Moreover, these actions undermine the fundamental principle of freedom of expression. While people have the right to express their opinions and dissent, defacing statues is a destructive and illegal form of expression. Peaceful means of protest and dialogue are more effective and respectful ways to convey one’s message.
Secondly, statues often represent works of art and cultural expressions, and defacing them demonstrates a lack of respect for the artists who created them and the cultures they symbolize. Additionally, defacing statues has legal consequences in many places and can result in criminal charges. It’s essential to uphold the rule of law and seek more constructive avenues for addressing grievances. Ultimately, rather than resorting to vandalism, engaging in constructive dialogue, education, and activism can be more impactful in raising awareness about the issues the statues may represent.