Protest artwork #StayHuman in front of U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam

Amsterdam – Netherlands, 12 February 2026 — As of today, the protest art installation #StayHuman by Dutch artist SAZZA has been installed directly in front of the U.S. Consulate in Amsterdam, on Museumplein.

The work features life-sized sculptures of crouched nude figures placed on black platforms. According to the artist, the installation refers to U.S. immigration enforcement and the role of the agency ICE.

Theme of dehumanisation

The installation responds to arrests, detention and deportation practices in the United States. Each platform carries the message #StayHuman, accompanied by texts addressing the theme of human dignity. The installation comes amid ongoing debate in the United States over immigration enforcement policies and the actions of ICE.

“In the United States, people with a migrant background are increasingly being treated without protection,” SAZZA said. “How can a country claim freedom, justice and humanity while at the same time dehumanising people?”

Statement from the U.S. Consulate

In a public response, the U.S. Consulate said it was aware of the artwork on Museumplein. While it stated it “fundamentally disagrees” with the artist’s claims, it emphasised freedom of expression:

“We are aware of the artwork on Museumplein, in front of the U.S. Consulate. While we fundamentally disagree with the artist’s claims, which question our responsibility to secure our borders, freedom of expression is an essential pillar of our democracy — one we proudly share with the Netherlands.”

 

Practical information
Location: In front of the U.S. Consulate, Museumplein, Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Dates: 10–20 February 2026
Artist: SAZZA