The sculpture draws inspiration from Alexandria’s waterfront being a place where natural forces and human activity intersect, often with profound consequences.
The centerpiece represents the sidewheel from the steamboat River Queen, a vessel that carried the promise of Black ownership during the early 20th century. Encircled by black sandbags, the sculpture is a tribute to the strength and resilience of Black Americans who have endured systemic marginalization while creating spaces of belonging and creativity. In contrast to the dark tones of the sandbags and sculpture, the ground mural displays colorful graphics and shuffleboard games, echoing the vibrant life on deck of the River Queen.