In a striking display of art and activism, New York City artist Victor Kenyones, known as Mara 27, has unveiled a bold tribute to migrants, challenging the Trump-era policies of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The installation, titled “Elevar Lakura,” transforms 200 gold-painted street coolers—often used by immigrant vendors—into a stunning homage to resilience and survival. Resembling an ancient Mayan temple, this provocative piece critiques the inhumane treatment of immigrants, repurposing the acronym ICE to stand for “Inhuman and Cruelty Enforcement.”

Located at The Shed, a prominent cultural center in New York, Kenyones’ work encapsulates the struggles of countless immigrants, including his own family’s painful history. Growing up in Texas, he witnessed his father’s deportation, fueling his desire to spotlight the injustices faced by those simply seeking a better life. Inside each cooler, visitors will discover spiritual artifacts and tapestries representing the city’s rich tapestry of cultures, reinforcing the message of unity amid diversity.

Kenyones’ work is not just an artistic statement; it is a clarion call against the government’s aggressive immigration tactics, targeting individuals in schools, churches, and workplaces. “They’re not going after criminals,” Kenyones asserts, “they’re arresting people just trying to live.” This urgent installation serves as a powerful reminder of the humanity at stake in the immigration debate, inviting viewers to reflect on the shared experiences of immigrants who contribute to the American landscape.

As the exhibit opens to the public, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who hustle and fight for their heritage, urging us to recognize the commonalities that bind us all. In a time when the immigrant narrative is often overshadowed by fear and division, Kenyones’ tribute shines a golden light on resilience and hope.