By Christine Sullivan

The quote “Hope Dies Last“ was spoken by Jessie de la Cruz, a former field worker who organized the United Farm Workers with Cesar Chavez, and was its first female recruiter. An activist until her death at 93, she was immortalized by Studs Terkel in his book, titled after de la Cruz’s indelible words.

In his book, Terkel tells us, “Hope has never trickled down. It has always sprung up.” He then relays a collection of oral histories by Americans from all walks of life and their never-ending hope in the spirit of activism, commitment and the determination to resist.

In the same way, Christine Sullivan’s felt banner, which was on display in the Railyard Park from January to mid-March 14th 2022, persevered. It stretched and sagged over time, but remained as further proof that this simple yet powerful word — HOPE — will not die. With each passing day, it acted as a visual testament to our collective, indefatigable spirit.