Statement by artist Jaci Willis

This sculpture was conceived by the McDonough County Women’s Social Service Memorial Committee to commemorate women social activists.  The costumes are from the 1900's, which was a dramatic time for women’s rights.  Women were gaining strength in their voice to be heard and their right to vote.  “Facing The Storm” reflects on this impact on women in society and refers to the hardships they had to overcome. 

Standing against the wind represents the struggle.  The woman is protecting the little girl from the force of the wind.  Women wore hats, often with flowers on them, and the red rose is the GFWC International flower.  The little girl is holding a cat.  Cats represent feminine intuition.