Stolen. That’s the first thought that hits you as you stand before the remnants of the Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes statue in Seattle’s Peace Park. Only the feet remain.
This bronze statue a full-sized depiction of Sadako Sasaki a young girl who died from leukemia caused by the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Sadako’s story is one of hope and resilience. She believed in a legend that folding a thousand origami cranes would grant her a wish a wish for healing. She folded 644 before she passed away at 12.
This statue wasn’t just a sculpture. It was a symbol of peace a place where people left origami cranes honoring Sadako and expressing their own hopes for a peaceful world. It was also unique. The only outdoor municipal art in Seattle honoring a woman.
Sadly this powerful symbol was stolen in July 2024. Someone cut it off at the ankles. The theft shocked the community. A healing gathering was held in August. People shared their grief but also their commitment to peace reflecting Sadako’s spirit.
Look closely. You’ll see the empty space where the statue once stood. You might even see some of the remaining origami cranes people have left as tributes. Despite the theft Sadako’s legacy of hope continues. The desire for peace lives on. This empty space is a reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of continuing to work for it.
This isn’t just a story about a stolen statue. It is about hope resilience and the enduring power of a young girl’s dream. It’s a story that invites us to reflect on peace and our own role in creating it. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving memorials especially those that inspire us to strive for a better world. The Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes statue may be gone but its message remains.