A giant ice sculpture of the word “democracy” was unveiled on the National Mall Wednesday.

The melting piece of art is meant to symbolize “America’s weakened democracy and the costs of its failure amid growing militarism and authoritarianism,” organizers say.

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The entire sculpture spans about 20 feet and is in view of the Capitol.

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The two New York City artists behind the installation, Marshall Reese and Nora Ligorano, have been installing temporary sculptures like this since 2006. This is the fourth time they have used the word democracy.

“It’s hard being an American to think that we need pro-democracy advocacy actions and groups, but that’

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