Justice 9-1-1

This is the idea that started this project and, ironically, was the next to last image shot. My friend Mark Tietig, a civil rights attorney, proposed this idea after arguing several First Amend-ment cases with frustrating results.

The shot was a lot more difficult to produce than we anticipated. There were many complications that arose, but all were resolved.

Using the Supreme Court grounds for a photograph required permits and coordination in the post-9/11 atmosphere. The procedures took some time, especially when a prop—a sword for placing beside ‘Lady Justice’s’ body—was considered a weapon by officials.

Still, it speaks well of our society that we were able to make such an image critical of the state of justice right in front of the highest court in the land. Feeling free to create a statement like this in full view of the public and the government, and without having to be deceptive in the approval and permission phase of the creative process, also makes a favorable statement.

Lady Justice is frequently knocked cold by the decisions of jurists who allow politics, blind procedure, or other imperatives to beat her into unconsciousness. Even with all the abuse she has taken since 1776, Lady Justice has always been able to get up one more time to fight for her ideals.

However, with the current post-9/11 and war in the Middle East situations, Lady Justice might start needing professional help to aid in her comebacks.

Let’s hope the paramedics always arrive in time.